Bowling Green, KY, September 11, 2025
News Summary
The Bowling Green community is mourning the loss of three beloved residents: James H. Dortman, Mollie Gaines Smith, and Jesse Douglas Whittaker. Each of these individuals leaves behind a profound legacy, having positively impacted their families and the community. Funeral services are planned for each individual, with family and friends gathering to honor their memories and celebrate the lives they led. The community is coming together in remembrance as they reflect on the contributions these residents made throughout their lives.
Bowling Green, KY – The Bowling Green community is in mourning following the recent passing of three cherished residents: James H. Dortman, Mollie Gaines Smith, and Jesse Douglas Whittaker. Each of these individuals made significant impacts in their families and the broader community, leaving behind a legacy that will be honored in the days to come.
James H. Dortman, 78
James H. Dortman passed away on September 7, 2025, at Tristar Skyline Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee. A resident of Bowling Green, Dortman was born on April 24, 1947, in Maywood, Illinois, son of the late Henry and Grace Dortman. He is survived by his wife, Linda Shields Dortman, daughter Tamera Poynter from Florida, and sister Jane Nelson from Elburn, Illinois.
James had a distinguished career spanning nearly 43 years at Fruit of The Loom before retiring. Following retirement, he continued to work for an additional six years at MAGNA. He also proudly served in the United States Army during the Vietnam Era. James was known for his love of old movies and sitcoms, alongside his enjoyment of bowling and spending time with family.
Funeral services for James are set for September 11, 2025, at 1:00 PM, with burial at Mt. Union General Baptist Church Cemetery in Allen County, Kentucky. Visitation will take place on September 10 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM and again on September 11 from 11:00 AM until the service.
Mollie Gaines Smith, 80
Mollie Gaines Smith passed away peacefully on September 8, 2025, in Louisville, Kentucky. Born on April 12, 1945, in Bowling Green, Mollie was a dedicated family member and community volunteer. She leaves behind two sons, S. Russell Smith III and J. Brooken Smith, as well as five granddaughters who affectionately referred to her as “Amama.”
Throughout her life, Mollie was deeply involved with organizations such as Gilda’s Club and the Junior League. She was a graduate of the University of Mississippi and a member of the Delta Delta Delta sorority. Known for her exceptional Christmas parties and passion for needlepoint, Mollie also enjoyed traveling, notably to Paris.
Visitation for Mollie will occur at Pearson’s Funeral Home on September 11 from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM and on September 12 from 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM, followed by a celebration of her life. The family has requested donations to Gilda’s Club Kentuckiana or Bridgehaven Mental Health Services in lieu of flowers.
Jesse Douglas Whittaker, 71
Jesse Douglas Whittaker succumbed to health issues at his home on September 5, 2025. He was born to the late James D. Whittaker and Charlene Jackson Whittaker and was preceded in death by his brother Eddie Whittaker. Jesse operated his own over-the-road trucking company and was a valued member of North Bowling Green Church of God.
He is survived by his wife, Kecia Gibbs Whittaker, two daughters, and four grandchildren: Gabriel, Aidan, Isabelle Cooper, and Leo Talley. Additionally, he had one brother, Jackie Whittaker, along with several nieces and nephews.
Jesse’s funeral service is arranged for September 9, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Hardy & Son Funeral Home, followed by burial at Smiths Grove Cemetery. Visitation is scheduled for September 8 from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
Community Remembering Their Heroes
The legacies of James, Mollie, and Jesse resonate deeply within the Bowling Green community. Each individual was involved in their family and local organizations, impacting many lives through their dedication and service. The community continues to come together during this somber time to honor their memories and celebrate the lives they led.
FAQ Section
What were the dates of death for the three residents?
James H. Dortman passed away on September 7, 2025, Mollie Gaines Smith on September 8, 2025, and Jesse Douglas Whittaker on September 5, 2025.
Where are the funeral services for these individuals being held?
James’s service is at J.C. Kirby & Son Lovers Lane Chapel, Mollie’s at Pearson’s Funeral Home, and Jesse’s at Hardy & Son Funeral Home.
Are the families requesting donations in lieu of flowers?
Yes, Mollie’s family requests donations to Gilda’s Club Kentuckiana or Bridgehaven Mental Health Services instead of flowers.
What community contributions did Mollie Gaines Smith make?
Mollie was involved with Gilda’s Club and the Junior League, spending her time volunteering and giving back to the community.
Key Features
| Resident | Date of Birth | Date of Death | Survived By | Funeral Home | Visitation Dates |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| James H. Dortman | April 24, 1947 | September 7, 2025 | Linda Shields Dortman, Tamera Poynter | J.C. Kirby & Son Lovers Lane Chapel | Sept 10, 4-7 PM; Sept 11, 11 AM |
| Mollie Gaines Smith | April 12, 1945 | September 8, 2025 | S. Russell Smith III, J. Brooken Smith | Pearson’s Funeral Home | Sept 11, 3-7 PM; Sept 12, 9-10:30 AM |
| Jesse Douglas Whittaker | (Not Specified) | September 5, 2025 | Kecia Gibbs Whittaker, two daughters | Hardy & Son Funeral Home | Sept 8, 3-7 PM |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Construction Progress on WCPS Impact Center in Bowling Green
Tragic Shooting at Evergreen High School Leaves One Dead and Two Wounded
Bowling Green Hosts Unified Basketball Night for Special Olympics
OgMentum ARK Chooses Bowling Green as New Headquarters
Kentucky Democrats Launch Tour to Address Medicaid Cuts
Bowling Green School District Receives Grant to Fight Food Insecurity
Bowling Green Welcomes New Dollar General Distribution Center
Marshall County Marshals Face Tough Losses in Bowling Green
OgMentum ARK Establishes Fiber Optic Headquarters in Bowling Green
Pastor Faces Charges for Failing to Report Child Abuse
Additional Resources
- Bowling Green Daily News: Mollie Gaines Smith Obituary
- Legacy: Vicki Harris Obituary
- Hardy & Son Funeral Homes: Dale Barbiea Obituary
- Legacy: William Green Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Obituary
Author: STAFF HERE BOWLING GREEN WRITER
The BOWLING GREEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBowlingGreen.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bowling Green, Warren County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the National Corvette Homecoming, International Festival, concerts at SKyPAC, and sports events at Beech Bend Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce and the African American Museum Bowling Green Area, plus leading businesses in automotive, apparel, and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors Corvette Assembly Plant, Fruit of the Loom, and Med Center Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELexingtonKY.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
