Walter “Okie” and Margaret “Maggie” Dorsey met and married in Corydon, Indiana. They both had a strong work ethic and a close family background.  After moving to Indianapolis, Indiana, they had nine children: three boys and six girls. Both of them lived in the same house until their deaths.

Walter served in World War I, then worked as a watchman at a lumber yard near his home. During the day, Maggie cleaned houses for three families.  To support their children, they worked very hard.

When Walter was at home, he liked to sit in the comfort of his chair while listening to the radio. Every day and night, he listened to baseball.  Baseball was one of his favorite sports, but he loved all sports.  As a result, he often took his children to Victory Field House to watch the games. 

In addition, he enjoyed going to Fall Creek to catch snap fish and turtles for Maggie to cook.  But some of their children didn’t like the smell or taste, so they wouldn’t eat it. Being a jokester, he laughed at this.

As a hobby, Maggie dabbled in sewing.  It was Walter and the family who contributed to the construction of Mt. Nebo Missionary Baptist Church, where she faithfully attended services. Church was a highlight for her, as she served on several committees and supported the church as needed.

On Sundays, Maggie spoiled her children and grandchildren with biscuits. Her cooking skills were exceptional.  Since she made the toppings herself, she didn’t need to shop for toppings at the grocery store. Just to name a few, Maggie made jelly, apple butter, and relish. However, peach jelly and rhubarb pie remain favorites.

It was impossible for any child or adult that came by the house on Sunday to forget her delicious homemade buttery biscuits that would melt in your mouth. However, one thing you didn’t do (and this was her pet peeve) was to reuse the same dipping utensil.  As an example, if you wanted a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, you would need a knife for peanut butter and a spoon for jelly.  In case you wanted butter and jelly on your biscuit, you know what to do… Use separate utensils to avoid getting in trouble.  On Sunday, friends and family gathered together. It wouldn’t have been any other way for Maggie.  

Children and grandchildren were clearly two of Walter and Maggie’s greatest joys.  Even though the home wasn’t especially strict, nonsense was not tolerated. Living there meant you had to be home by 10 pm.

For some, this was not a concrete rule.  Many times, Maggie would show leniency and allow those who went skating to arrive after 10pm.  It was impossible for them to make it home by the deadline. Therefore, she allowed them to enter. Walter was unaware of what was happening.  

Along with skating, the kids loved playing kickball in the alley and horseshoes near the big apple tree.  In the backyard, they were joined by Donald the duck, Skipper the dog, and Petey the parakeet.  The time was filled with fun times and memories.

In general, Walter and Maggie were wonderful parents and grandparents. In the past, they were known for their unwavering support. There was seldom an event they didn’t attend, or an affection they didn’t display. Their doors were always open to anyone in need of a place to stay. They always made room, regardless of whether they had enough room. Their love for their family was unconditional.

Their respect and dignity for each other were evident as a married couple. Although they weren’t perfect, love was always present. As a family, we are bonded by the same values, which is a testament to how we interact.

It was the lessons we were taught that will serve as a foundation for our family.  Therefore, Mayibuye was created.  Keeping family at the forefront is what matters most to us!

Walter and Maggie will be remembered as generous, hardworking, and compassionate people who loved their family dearly.

They will both be sorely missed!

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