Dorsey Hensley Adair, age 83, of Hohenwald, Tennessee, passed away on July 23, 2026, in the same hometown where she was born on January 25, 1943. She lived a life marked by faith, devotion to her family, and a quiet kindness that touched all who knew her.
She was the daughter of the late Roy “Buck” Hensley and Audria Mae Hinson Hensley. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Elmer Adair, whose companionship and love were a treasured part of her life. Dorsey carried the memory of her family close to her heart throughout her days and remained deeply connected to those she loved.
Dorsey is survived by her daughter, Tanna Anderson and her husband Jimmy; her son, Joshua Adair and his wife Diene; her grandchildren, Maci Toungette and her husband Caleb, Hensley Adair, and Declan Adair; and her great-grandchildren, Addie and Lincoln Toungette. She is also survived by her sisters, Jodi Ashmore and her husband David, and Clara Adair and her husband Danny; her brother, Dwight Hensley and his wife Connie; and several nieces, nephews, and dear friends who will cherish her memory. Her family was one of the greatest joys of her life, and she found special happiness in spending time with her grandbabies and watching her family grow.
Dorsey was known for her loving spirit, her generous heart, and her strong faith. She was a woman who gave of herself freely and who found purpose in caring for others. Her life reflected the values she held dear, and she was a steady source of comfort, encouragement, and warmth to those around her. Her faith was an important part of who she was, and she was a faithful presence in her church and community.
Throughout her working years, Dorsey was employed at Siegel’s Factory, worked as Walmart demonstration personnel, and served as a teacher’s aide at Lewis County Schools. She also shared many meaningful years with her husband Elmer as they cleaned the First Baptist Church together. Her work ethic was strong, and she approached each responsibility with dedication. Those who knew her through her work remembered her as dependable, kind, and always willing to help.
Dorsey enjoyed the simple pleasures of life and treasured time spent with the people she loved. She enjoyed reading and working crossword puzzles, and she especially loved porch sitting in the evenings. She looked forward to going to the beach with her family and visiting the Amish stands with Elmer. She was also a proud member of the Jaycettes and found joy in singing in church, where her faith and voice were shared with others in worship. From a young age, Dorsey learned sign language, a gift that became a meaningful part of her life and a reflection of her compassionate spirit. She often signed songs for church on Sundays, sharing her faith in a beautiful and heartfelt way that touched many lives. Her love for worship and her willingness to use her talents in service to others were among the many ways she blessed those around her. These interests brought her happiness and reflected the peaceful, thoughtful way she lived her life.
Her family and friends will remember Dorsey as a loving, generous, and faith-filled woman whose presence brought comfort and joy. She will be remembered for her gentle nature, her devotion to her family, and the many ways she made life brighter for those around her.
Visitation with family and friends will be held at First Baptist Church Hohenwald on Monday, July 27, 2026, from 5:00-8:00 pm and again Tuesday, July 28, 2026, from 9:00 until time of service of 11:00 am. Brother Ronnie Brewer will be officiating. Dorsey will be laid to rest next to her loving husband at Swiss Cemetery following the service. https://www.adairfuneralservices.com
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