Dorothea Mae (Dorsey) Sechrist, 66, of Lebanon, PA, finished her race and stepped into the arms of Jesus on Aug. 11, 2025, surrounded by her family at Hershey Medical Center.
Born on Aug. 30, 1958, in Lebanon to the late Earl Imboden and survived by her loving mother, Marian Imboden, Dorsey was deeply devoted to her family. She is also survived by her cherished sisters, Vicki “Cookie” Sharp (Dale) and Sheila Myles, who were not just siblings but lifelong best friends, sharing countless laughs, adventures, and unwavering support.
She is also survived by her long-term fiancé, Derek Tarver, who cared for her with a steadfast, unconditional love that many only dream of receiving; sons, Nicholas (Erin) Sechrist and Jordan (fiancé, Sanreah Jones); her pride and joy granddaughter, Kennedy Jean; along with many beloved nieces and nephews.
Known to many as Mom, GMa, Aunt Dort, or Mama Dukes, she had a gift for making people feel seen, valued, and loved. When her boys were young, her home was the neighborhood hangout—full of kids, music, and laughter. She loved driving her boys and their friends around, blasting ’90s hip-hop, and singing every word with them.
Dorsey worked as a Learning Support Teacher’s Aide for IU13 and Cedar Crest Middle School before joining the Pennsylvania State Police at the CDC and Troop J Lancaster, as a Police Communications Operator. Her PSP family was more than co-workers—she considered every trooper “one of her kids,” pouring her heart into making sure they came home safe. Those troopers will forever hold a special place in Dorsey’s heart and in her family’s hearts for the way they cared for her.
She fought a courageous battle through a lengthy illness, driven by her love for her granddaughter. Thursdays were their favorite days, when she babysat Kennedy, and they filled the house with joy together. Dorsey loved dancing, ’90s hip-hop, cooking (her mac and cheese and baked beans were legendary), family time, loyalty, and friendly trash talk when her New Orleans Saints played her boys’ Philadelphia Eagles. She never missed a chance to spoil the ones she loved.
The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the incredible staff at Hershey Medical Center for the exceptional care and purpose they gave her in her final days.
She was preceded in death by her father, Earl Imboden, and her grandparents.
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful.” (2 Timothy 4:7). And as she would say to all of us, “Love you more always.”
A celebration of life will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 6, 2025, at LCBC Church, 2392 Mount Joy Road, Manheim, PA, with visitation an hour prior. We’ll share food and fellowship immediately after the service—just the way she’d want it. Please enter at the Auditorium South Entrance.
Instead of flowers (she’d tell you herself they were a waste), consider honoring her by donating to PA State Police Sunny Day Camp, 1800 Elmerton Ave., Harrisburg, PA 17110.
