On September 7, 2025, Tiftarea Academy and the community mourned the loss of beloved coach and mentor Newell “Sarge” Dorsey, whose enduring legacy will inspire generations.
For over five decades, Sarge poured his heart into Tiftarea Academy, Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College (ABAC), and the countless lives he touched with his kindness and dedication.
Sarge was a Multifaceted Individual, Holding Roles as a Veteran, Coach, Photographer, and Community Pillar
A retired Air Force Master Sergeant, he served with honor in both the Korean and Vietnam Wars before enrolling at ABAC from 1970 to 1972.
At ABAC, he found his calling in athletics, leading intramural programs and later serving as Director of Intramurals from 1981.
His continuous work maintaining athletic facilities and fostering student engagement earned him the National Intramural and Recreation Sports Association (NIRSA) Region II Award of Merit, ABAC’s Staff Forum Award, and the 1983 Pacesetter Award.
In 2009, his contributions were cemented with his induction into ABAC’s Athletics Hall of Fame.
In the 1970s, Sarge brought his passion to Tiftarea Academy, where he coached basketball, golf, and track.
His work with the track program became his hallmark, as he led the girls’ team to their first-ever state championship.
His coaching went beyond trophies; he believed in every athlete, encouraging them to push their limits and build confidence.
Even after stepping away from formal coaching, Sarge remained a fixture at Tiftarea games, camera in hand, capturing moments of triumph and joy.
He loved sharing these photos with athletes and their families, creating cherished memories that reflected his generosity.
Tiftarea Academy honored Sarge’s contributions in 2022 by dedicating the track at the Panther Pit in his name.
The ceremony celebrated his decades of service and his unwavering love for the school.
The Sarge Dorsey Youth Track Invitational, held each spring, became another testament to his influence, encouraging young students to embrace the sport he cherished.
These initiatives ensured that Sarge’s passion for track and his commitment to youth would live on.
Tiftarea Academy shared a heartfelt statement following his passing:
“With heavy hearts, we remember Coach Sarge Dorsey. This morning, our Tiftarea Academy family lost a true legend. Coach Sarge Dorsey, one of our biggest supporters and long-time coaches, passed away. For over 50 years, Sarge coached track, basketball, and golf, and never stopped showing up for our students. He led our girls’ track team to their first-ever State Title and built a legacy that will live on for generations. Please keep his family in your prayers. Funeral arrangements are being handled by Albritton Funeral Directors. Thank you, Coach Dorsey, for everything. You will be deeply missed.”
Via Facebook
Sarge’s Death has led to Many People Sharing Their Love for Him
Kim Brownlee, a former student and friend, shared a touching reflection:
“What a sweet man that loved all of his TA families. I first met Sarge in high school when he helped coach track and taught us how to use the starting blocks. He was at ABAC over intramural sports when I attended. We were reunited at TA when my son Parks started there. Sarge has been a part of the TA family for over 50 years. He loved on all of us, encouraged all of us, and was the biggest cheerleader for all the kids at all the sporting events. Our life is better knowing him and having him as a dear friend. We love you, Sarge, and will miss you dearly.”
Via Facebook
Lou McNabb wrote,
“He was such a wonderful man. He loved all those children, and they loved him. My Caroline loved him, and he made all those children have so much confidence in themselves and made them better people than they ever thought they could be.”
Via Facebook
Dianna Hinson Hall, a neighbor, recalled Sarge’s warmth:
“Mr. Sarge has been a wonderful neighbor to me. I’ll never forget when we first met—he greeted me warmly, welcomed me to the neighborhood, and what did he talk about first? You guessed it—Tiftarea Academy! He was so proud of TA!”
Via Facebook
Robin Aylor added,
Via Facebook,
“Always loved seeing Sarge at the GISA State Track Meets! He is a legend! May peace cover his family and friends in the days to come.”
Sarge Dorsey’s life was defined by his selflessness and his ability to connect with people.
Whether he was coaching a championship team, snapping photos at a game, or welcoming a new neighbor, he had a unique gift for making everyone feel valued.
His love for Tiftarea Academy and its students was evident in everything he did, from mentoring young athletes to preserving their memories through his photography.
As the community grieves, they also celebrate a life well-lived. The track at the Panther Pit will forever carry his name, and the Sarge Dorsey Youth Track Invitational will continue to inspire young runners.
Sarge’s legacy is not just in the awards or the state titles but in the countless lives he shaped with his encouragement and belief in their potential.
Rest in peace, Coach Sarge. Your light will continue to shine in Tiftarea and beyond.
