Johnathan Wesley "Wes" Dorton

Wes passed away from this life the morning of August 29th, 2023. He had battled cancer for the last 8 years on and off and claimed his victory in Jesus! He was surrounded by family. Wes was born in Wise, VA but has lived in South Carolina the majority of his adult life. Wes was a a father, a friend, a coach, a business partner, a mentor, an administrator and filled any other role he could as needed. The legacy he will leave behind is his dedication to helping young student-athletes achieve their goals of playing college football. As the Athletic Director for Palmetto Prep Academy he oversaw and built a program that sent over 200 student-athletes to college or university. This includes one alumni that became a Super Bowl Champion in 2022 with the Kansas City Chiefs; Joshua Williams. (This is extremely ironic as Wes was an avid Las Vegas Raiders fan.) His vision to change lives through sport lives on at Palmetto Prep as they have entered their 12th year. Wes has been a member of Gateway Baptist Church for many years. He also was a member of the Band of Brothers and sang for local gospel group; Spirit’s Call. Some of Wes’s favorite things to do were playing the piano, spending time out on the lake, watching football, and spending time with his family. Wes is survived by his three children (and spouses): Nathan Dorton, Nolan Dorton, and Nikki Kilian; daughter-in-law Kendal Dorton, son-in-law Jon Kilian; four grandchildren: Ryland Dorton and Gannon Dorton, Dawson Kilian and Danver Kilian. Wes is also survived by his Mother Phyllis Dorton, his brother Stephen Dorton and sister Sherrie Johnson. Sister-in-law Marcina Dorton and brother-in-law Scott Johnson. He was preceded in death by his father, Robert S. Dorton. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider a donation to Palmetto Preparatory Academy (735 Saturn Parkway, Suite 500, Columbia, SC 29212 or https://www.palmettoprep.org)