Paul Craig Dockrey

Paul “Poppy” Craig Dockrey, 72, of Florence, TX passed away peacefully Wednesday, March 2, 2022, at a local hospital.

A private viewing with graveside services will be held on Friday, March 11, 2022. Paul is going out just how he wanted in a wood box in his pick-up truck and buried in Sharp Cemetery near his farm. A reception will be held after the service in his honor at the family's "Ranch House" where they will be serving some of Paul's favorite treats and celebrating his life.

Paul Craig Dockrey was born on February 8, 1950, to C.L. and Margaret Dockrey in Temple, TX. He grew up in Killeen, TX where he was an active member of the FFA and graduated from Killeen High School. 

Paul was always quite the character. Most knew him for his wheeling and dealing.  He owned a car lot, sold cars, and flipped items to sell for most of his life. His family called him “the cheapest man on the planet” but he did have a talent for finding a great deal. He always said, "everything is for sale for the right price."  Paul also had a passion for criminal justice and became a Licensed Texas Peace Officer. He worked as a reserve deputy sheriff and deputy constable for Bell County and enjoyed helping others and his community for many years.

In his free time Paul enjoyed fishing, hunting, road trips, thrift stores, treasure hunting, shopping at Aldi’s, eating at Meno’s with his dear friend Ed, showing gospel music videos on YouTube to his grandkids, cooking, and spending all the time he could with his family. His grandchildren meant the world to him; he even went to New York to be there for his grandson, Zachary’s heart surgery. Chelsie, his granddaughter, was the last person he asked for before he passed. His family will miss his sly grin, his quick comeback lines and his phrases like, "Don't overcook the meat” and “Two at the time." 

Paul was so giving and selfless to those he loved. Some might have known him as grumpy but that was just his exterior. He loved deeply and was always concerned about everyone’s wellbeing. He was the rock of the family, and they will miss him dearly.

He is preceded in death by his parents, C. L. and Margaret Dockrey; and twin daughters, Tracie Michelle and Christie Renee Dockrey.

Paul is survived by his daughters, Amanda Dockrey of Florence and Jeri Dockrey of Killeen; his brothers, Ronald “Ronny” Dockrey and wife, Barbara of Florence and Greg Dockrey and wife, Vanessa of Houston; two grandchildren, Chelsie "Chelsible" and Zachary “Poppy’s Pal” Dockrey of Florence; and his 4 dachshunds, affectionately known as “Sheila D. and the guys.”

In lieu of flowers, as Paul would say, “Don’t waste your money. Just put me in the ground and come back to the ranch house and eat.”

Arrangements are entrusted to Crotty Funeral Home of Belton, Texas.