Isaiah Leon Dorsey

Isaiah “Leon” Dorsey, 93, passed away peacefully on February 15, 2026, in Arlington, Virginia.

Leon was born on May 23, 1932, in Montgomery County, Maryland, to Matthew and Eleanor Dorsey. He graduated from Lincoln High School in 1949 and soon after enlisted in the United States Air Force. He was assigned to the 5th Air Police Squadron at Travis Air Force Base in California, where he proudly served his country.

Following his military service, Leon began a long and dedicated career with the U.S. government at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Maryland, where he worked as a Laboratory Technician until his retirement.

Originally from Montgomery County, Leon later made his home in Northern Virginia. He lived in Alexandria for many years before requiring long term nursing care in Arlington.

Leon’s charismatic and outgoing personality is how many will remember him. He had a natural gift for connecting with people and was never one to shy away from conversation or laughter. A devoted Washington Redskins football fan, Leon rarely missed a chance to cheer on his team.  He also enjoyed spirited games of checkers and bid whist with family and friends, always welcoming a good challenge.  Many will also remember the great Laytonsville cookouts and the legendary horseshoe matches that ensued.

A lifelong history buff, Leon was an avid reader with a deep and impressive knowledge of historical events, often sharing stories and insights with those around him.

Leon is survived by his wife, Lillian Dorsey; his sister, Hazel Smith; and his children, Michael Dorsey, Gayle Dorsey, Alicia Lacks, and Kevin Dorsey. He also leaves behind nine grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews who will cherish his memory.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Matthew and Eleanor Dorsey; his son, Alan Dorsey; his brothers, Clayton Dorsey, Herbert Dorsey, Prather Dorsey, and Louis Dorsey; and his sisters, Ernestine Prather, Merlee Lancaster, Rosemarie Holston, and Annette Demar.

Leon’s life was marked by service, warmth, and a genuine love for family, conversation, and community. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.

 Visitation will be held on Wednesday March 4, 2026 at Snowden Funeral Home from 9:30am, with service immediately following at 11am.

Interment will be 2pm, a private military burial at The National Memorial Cemetery at Quantico.

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