William "Bill" Wayne Dockery

William “Bill” Wayne Dockery, 81, passed away peacefully on September 22, 2025. He was born on October 22, 1943, on Owl Creek in Thermopolis, Wyoming, the son of Clifford and Edna (Ready) Dockery. Bill was the youngest sibling to Bob, Carl, and Colleen.

He graduated from Hot Springs County High School in 1962, where he was active in FFA—serving as chapter president—as well as football and high school rodeo. Upon graduation, Bill wanted to learn a variety of trades and chose to enlist in the U.S. Army. He received his basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, and went on to serve as a heavy equipment operator. During his service, he was stationed in France, where he helped build airport runways.

On July 29, 1967, Bill married Diane Rapp, and they shared their lives together until Diane’s passing in January of 1992. On October 16, 2011, he married Marlene Black, with whom he built a later chapter of companionship and love.

Bill’s working life reflected his dedication and people skills. He spent many years at Wasson Chevrolet, where he was recognized as the multi-state District Service Manager of the Year numerous times and a member of the, “Only the Best Club”. The honor came with memorable trips that he and Diane cherished together. Later, he worked for the Niobrara County School District as the transportation supervisor, a role he enjoyed—especially the chance to good-naturedly harass his office ladies, who he cared for deeply.

Bill’s life was centered around family, hard work, and a quiet strength that touched those around him. He was a devoted father to Brett Dockery, Matt and Tandy Dockery, Shayley and Matt Love, and Jennifer and Bo Kottwitz. He was also blessed with ten grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, who were his pride and joy.

His children often say they learned some of life’s most valuable lessons from him. Bill wasn’t afraid to let them fail if it meant they would learn how to do things right. That balance of patience and toughness shaped the character of those who loved him most.

Bill was also known far and wide as “Mr. Fix It.” It didn’t matter what was broken—everyone knew he could fix it, and more often than not, he did it without asking for pay. As the years went on and cars became more of a challenge due to his physical limitations, he shifted his focus to lawn mowers and smaller machines. Still, nothing was ever too much for his knowledge and mechanical skill.

Bill believed in giving back to his community and was actively involved throughout his life. He served on the Legend of Rawhide board, volunteered as an EMT, and was a member of the American Legion and Elks Lodge. He attended the First Baptist Church, gave his time at the Stagecoach Museum, and delivered Meals on Wheels. His service reflected his generous spirit and his commitment to helping others.

Preceding him in death were his parents, Clifford and Edna Dockery; his siblings, Bob, Carl, and Colleen; his wife, Diane; and his father- and mother-in-law, Norm and Cathy Brillhart.

Survivors include his wife, Marlene; his children, Brett Dockery, Matt (Tandy) Dockery, Shayley (Matt) Love, and Jennifer (Bo) Kottwitz; grandchildren, Hunter and Bailey, Dax and Cady, Thomas and Lexie, Channing and Kyler, Kennadie and Cody, Matison and Seth, Teegan, Brogen, Peyton, and Abby; and great-grandchildren, Reylynn, Wacey, Warren, Everett, Banks, Maverick, and Mavelynn.

Bill is remembered for his steady nature, his wit, and the way he carried himself with kindness and humility. He leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication that will live on in his family and all who knew him.

Visitation will be held Sunday, September 28, 2025, from 2:00–4:00 p.m. at Pier Funeral Home in Lusk, Wyoming.

Funeral services will take place Monday, September 29, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at the Niobrara County Fairgrounds in Lusk, Wyoming.

Memorials may be made to the Niobrara Senior Center, the Stagecoach Museum, or to the donor’s choice.

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