Michael Ray Dortch

Michael Ray Dortch, age 64, of Macon passed away February 25, 2017. He was born in Mobile, AL and grew up in Warner Robins, GA. He graduated from Northside High School and studied music at Middle Georgia College. Michael was a longtime resident of Macon and developed many friendships over his 40 years as a hair stylist. His first job was with Canned Ego at Davison's. Through the years he worked at other locations including Country Classics, Panache and Amanda Jane Salon. After moving to Macon, he enjoyed many community activities including the Theatre, the Symphony and the Festival of Trees. He became interested in music at an early age and loved many different genres. He played piano, organ, trumpet and sang. In 1965 he received his first Petula Clark album, Downtown, which became a major influence on his life. He soon became enamored with her music and collected all her albums. He traveled to see her in concerts and plays in the United States as well as Europe. He was introduced to her after a concert in the 1980s and they soon became friends. They often had dinner together after one of her shows. He also visited with her at her residence in London. Michael traveled extensively and enjoyed visiting various cities and countries, however, his true love was the beach. He was first introduced to the beautiful sugar white sand and clear blue water at Gulf Shores, AL as a baby. Upon moving to Warner Robins, the family continued going to Gulf Shores on vacation each summer. After moving to Macon, he started visiting St. Simons Island and later purchased a condo there, which he truly enjoyed for many years. Michael was a somewhat private person. He displayed many acts of kindness and generosity over the years which were done in a quiet and unassuming manner. He also loved animals. His first pet after moving to Macon was a precious Maltese dog named Cal who was adorable and a joy to be with. After Cal's passing, Michael developed a profound compassion for animals and began taking in stray and rescue dogs and cats. His favorite animal facility was Save A Pet in Forsyth. He was blessed with many friendships over the years, both old and new. He enjoyed spending time with his friends and his family. Michael was preceded in death by his father, Clyde Ray Dortch; grandparents, Lemuel and Minnie Dortch of AL; and Walter and Florine Buckley of MS. Survivors include his mother, Barbara Dortch Houlton of Evans; sister, Sharon Dortch Fry (David) of Augusta; sister, Becky Dortch Conover (Wayne) of Snellville; and nephew, Jay Lloyd Underwood of Atlanta. Funeral services will be held at Hart's Mortuary at the Cupola on March 12, 2017 at 2:00 pm. The family will receive friends immediately following the service. Memorial donations may be made to Save A Pet at P.O. Box 933, Forsyth, GA 31029 or to the donor's favorite local animal shelter.

Visitation following the service