J Webster Dollahan, age 89, of Lawrenceville, Illinois, passed away Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at Gentle Care in Vincennes, Indiana.
J Webster Dollahan, age 89, of Lawrenceville, Illinois, passed away Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at Gentle Care in Vincennes, Indiana. He was born February 19, 1937 in Sumner, Illinois, the son of Hugh A. Dollahan and Agatha Kinder Dollahan. He married Martha Gillespie on March 8, 1957, and she preceded him in death on May 3, 2025.
J.W. dedicated much of his life to education, agriculture, and serving his community. He earned a Master's degree in Agri-Business and shared his knowledge with countless students throughout his teaching career. He taught Horticulture and Agricultural Power and Technology in Lawrenceville, as well as Auto Mechanics in Robinson, inspiring young people through his passion for agriculture and skilled trades.
In addition to teaching, J.W. was a lifelong farmer and operated Dollahan Dozer Service, providing land contract work across several counties. His strong work ethic and willingness to help others earned him the respect of those who knew and worked alongside him.
A proud veteran, J.W. honorably served in the United States Navy before continuing his military commitment in the U.S. Navy Reserve for 16 years. He was also a member of the Elks, where he enjoyed the fellowship of friends and fellow members.
J.W. had a lifelong appreciation for mechanics and craftsmanship. He found great enjoyment in collecting and restoring classic automobiles and assembling model train collections., He helped design and build a rail dragster known as the "Little Puffer" with the Stevens’ family.
Whether working on a restoration project, tending to the farm, or sharing his knowledge with others, J.W. approached every endeavor with dedication, ingenuity, and pride. He will be remembered for his intelligence, strong work ethic, and the lasting impact he made on his family, friends, students, and community.
Preceding J. W. in death were his parents, his spouse, Martha, and his step-mother June Richey Dollahan.
Survivors include: children, Stephen J. (Estella) Dollahan of Lemoore, California, and Margaret Dollahan of Michigan City, Indiana; sibling, Mary Nell (Errol) Doty of Chico, California; grandchildren, Ailyn Tisado and Martha Agatha Defrosa Dollahan; great-grandchildren, Taya Mayari Morales and Lyra Rose` Denny.
Funeral services will be conducted on Monday, August 17, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. CST at Emmons-Macey & Steffey Funeral Home in Lawrenceville, Illinois. Burial will be in the Dollahan Cemetery, north of Pinkstaff.
