Tributes have been paid to a beloved Keady doctor who had been a trusted family GP to many in the area for over 40 years.
Dr Richard Dorman, formerly of Willowbank Surgery, passed away peacefully at hospital on June 25.
Those who had the privilege of being cared for by Dr Richard have called him the “essence” of what it means to be a General Practitioner.
Sharing their memories and fondness, former patients described a doctor who was willing to travel to the homes of those ailed, a man with a “real heart” for his patients and an inherent kindness that often extended well beyond the surgery.
Said one person: “Dr Richard was a great GP one of the best, with a real interest in his patients. I remember getting a visit from him at home after a spell in hospital, when he helped diagnose my cancer, just a nice friendly visit to see how I was, sadly this is not the way of things anymore! Condolences to his family.”
“So very sorry to hear this sad news. He was an absolute gentleman and a fantastic doctor,” said another. “I have such fond memories of how kind and caring he was when we were sick as children. He even came to our house as my mum didn’t drive. My sincere condolences.”
Many have regarded him as an “absolute gentlemen” who consistently went above and beyond. “His door was always open, day or night,” said another former patient.
In the days when healthcare moves at a much more rapid pace than ever before, Dr Richard held onto the more personal, traditional role of being a family doctor.
He gave his time, his empathy and compassion freely. He did not rush, he did not judge and never dismissed a patient’s concerns.
He listened and he cared and that meant the world to those who attended him for comfort and advice.
As loved as he was by his patients, he was also held in high esteem by colleagues throughout the healthcare sector.
Said one: “So sorry to hear this sad news. I had the privilege of working in the area as a Social Worker and always found Dr Richard to be professional yet approachable, courteous, compassionate and caring with the unique ability to connect with people at their level.
“He knew his patients, their families and how best to treat them. A big loss to his family and the community.”
In his death, many are now taking the opportunity to thank the community doctor for the lifetime of care he provided. Care that has been regarded as at the “centre of excellence”. All send their sincere sympathies to his family, friends and colleagues.
Willowbank Surgery have also paid tribute to their devoted former colleague.
“The Partners and staff of Willowbank Surgery Keady Co Armagh, deeply regret the passing of their former partner Dr Richard Dorman.
“Dr Richard Dorman was a respected colleague and devoted family doctor, he dedicated many years of service to the care and wellbeing of the local community. His contribution to the practice, patients and local community will be remembered with gratitude and affection.
“We wish to extend our heartfelt sympathy to his dear wife Janet, daughters Clare and Jenny and extended family circle.
“The surgery will be operating an emergency service on Tuesday, June 30, 2026 as a mark of respect and to enable staff to attend Dr Richard Dorman’s funeral.”
A death notice described him as the beloved husband of Janet, dearly loved father of Claire and Jennie, dear father-in-law Al, devoted grandfather of Atticus, cherished brother of Dr David and the late Kerry.
Dr Richard’s Funeral Service will be held in St Matthew’s Parish Church, Keady on Tuesday June, 30 at 12 noon followed by a private cremation.
Donations are being gratefully received in lieu of flowers for NI Children’s Hospice and NI Kidney Research Fund.
The family home is strictly private.
