When he got a break from farm work, John learned to hunt, fish and play baseball. He especially enjoyed turtle hunting and seining for fish. John played baseball for the Huggins Branch team among others.
He attended Crabapple Grammar School and graduated from Milton High in 1937. That same year John began a 35-year career with Foremost Dairy.
In 1943 John entered the US Navy and was temporarily assigned to the troop carrier General W. A Mann. Later, he was stationed in Naples, Italy. When World War II ended in 1945, John was discharged and returned home to his family and to his job at Foremost. He remained at Foremost until 1972, when he retired as plant manager. He soon began a second career with the Fulton County Parks Department where he worked as area maintenance supervisor until he retired again in 1983.
Today, John remains active by building and selling porch swings and garden arbors. He also grows and sells fine tomatoes. His son and daughter-in-law live nearby as do his grandchildren and great grandchildren.
If you don't already know John Dorris, you should try to meet him. He's a pleasant, practical man who always wears a smile. He has an immense knowledge of Crabapple history. And, he continues to be a positive influence on many people in this community including the author.
Submitted by:
Connie Mashburn
November 2004