David Dorsett

In Loving Memory of David James Dorsett

David James Dorsett, a long-time resident of Cranford, NJ, passed away peacefully at home at the age of 90. Born on February 3, 1935, in Roselle, NJ, he was the beloved son of Grace and Delbert Dorsett.

David’s remarkable career as a television cameraman spanned nearly five decades. After receiving his training in Atlanta, GA, in the early 1950s, he returned to New York City, where his talent quickly earned him recognition. He won awards for his work on television commercials for MGM Telestudios, later becoming a member of IBEW and joining CBS. His skilled cinematography graced soap operas, CBS Sports, and legendary broadcasts such as The CBS Evening News with Walter Cronkite and Dan Rather. His career took him around the world, covering multiple Olympic Games, and culminated in years of dedicated work on The David Letterman Show. His contributions to the industry were honored with multiple Emmy Awards, a testament to his artistry behind the camera.

David was deeply loved by his family. He is survived by his sons, David James Dorsett Jr. and his wife, Sandy and Christopher Terry Dorsett, and his wife, Sarah. He was predeceased by his son, Gregory Terry Dorsett. His legacy lives on through his grandchildren—Holly, Hanna, David James III, Mason, Parker, and Kensington—as well as his nieces, Collette DeStefano and Jacquline Bohanan, his nephew Douglas Tredenick, and numerous great-nieces. He was preceded in passing by his brother, Earl Dorsett, who gave his life in WWII, and his sister, Barbara (“Babs”), in 2004.

True to his name, David was a beloved presence in the lives of many, especially his dear friend Maureen O’Brien (formerly of Cranford) and the entire O’Brien family.

A memorial service to honor his life will be held at Dooley’s Funeral Home, 218 North Avenue West, Cranford, NJ, on Thursday, May 29, from 6:00 – 8:00 PM. Funeral services will take place at St. Michael’s Church in Cranford, NJ, on May 30 at 10:00 AM.

David’s life was one of dedication, creativity, and deep love for those around him. May his memory continue to inspire all who knew him.