J. W. Dortch, 72, passed away Sunday, April 1, 2012 at Arkansas Methodist Medical Center. He was born May 14, 1939 in Paragould to Noah and Vida Dortch. He was a 1957 graduate of Greene County Tech, served four years in the Navy, was in the National Guard, an Alderman of Paragould for many years and was a member of Morning Star Evangelical Methodist Church. He liked auctions and demolition derbies.Preceding him in death were his parents; two brothers, R. L. and Lavoy Dortch; two sisters, Imogene Causby and Yvonne McDonald and a step-daughter, Tonya Beasley.He is survived by his wife, Betty Dortch of the home; one son, Curtis Dortch; one daughter and son-in-law Belinda and Steve Causey; a step-daughter, Sonya Brown, a step-son, Keith Franks; an adopted son, Cody Franks; one brother, Larry Dortch; fifteen grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.The family will receive friends 6-8 PM, Wednesday, April 4, 2012 at Phillips Funeral Home. There will be a graveside service 10:00 AM, Thursday, April 5, 20102 at Harvey Chapel Cemetery with Kevin Edgar officiating.