Adolph “Sonny” Doehring

Adolph “Sonny” Doehring, age 85, of Birmingham, Alabama, passed away peacefully on March 30, 2026. He was born on May 1, 1940 in Brownstown, Illinois to Darrel and Mildred (Washburn) Doehring.

As a standout athlete at Brownstown High School (Class of 1957) Sonny earned varsity letters in baseball, basketball, and track. He attended Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, IL. He played collegiate basketball and earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology in 1962. As a father, he spent many seasons coaching Little League baseball and Youth Basketball, passing on his knowledge and sportsmanship to the next generation. He was also a dedicated fan of the St. Louis Cardinals.

Sonny’s professional journey was marked by two distinct chapters. For 20 years, he owned and operated the Dycus Insurance Agency in Vandalia, IL. During this time, he was a member of the Hartford Elite Corps of Professional Independent Insurance Agents and the National Federation of Independent Business. Transitioning to his second career on St. Simons Island, GA, he was an Edward Jones Investment Representative, building his business from the ground up. Beyond managing portfolios, he was committed to the professional growth of his colleagues by serving on the regional Hiring Team and acting as a mentor/trainer for newly hired financial advisors, helping to ensure their future success.

In his early life Sonny was involved in various local civic organizations in Vandalia, IL. He served as a City Alderman, was a member of the U.S. Jaycees and volunteered for the Heart Fund and United Way. Sonny was Chairman of the Vandalia Tourism Committee and served as a dedicated member of Rotary International being recognized as an Ed Bruce, Paul Harris, and Will Watts Fellow. He also chaired the Rotary International Student Exchange Program for several years. Sonny and his wife Cindy hosted many foreign exchange students in their home, several of whom they maintained relationships with and later visited in their home countries. In 1999 while serving as President of the St. Simons Island Rotary chapter he was awarded “Triple Fellow” status and a lifelong membership.

Sonny was passionate about education and global missions volunteering as a mentor at St. Simons Oglethorpe Point Elementary School and with MAP International (a global Medical Access Program). He also supported GUL International in their mission to share the gospel around the world.

Sonny was a Deacon at the First Baptist Church of Vandalia for several years. He also worked with the Youth Group and served on the nursing home outreach ministry. At St. Simons Island United Methodist Church he was as an adult Sunday School teacher, usher, and member of the Finance Committee.

Sonny was a man of many interests. An avid collector of antiques, he was known for his specialized collections of colorful vintage fruit canning jars, blue and white stoneware and rare Coca Cola and Insurance Company advertising signs. He and Cindy shared a love for adventure, spending 20 years traveling abroad and exploring the world together. Sonny’s greatest joy was his family and for 30 years he and Cindy hosted an annual summer vacation for all twenty children and grandchildren at various resorts throughout the U.S.

Sonny is survived by his wife, Cindy, children and their spouses: Stephanie Givens (Gary), Robinson, IL, Col. Andrew Doehring (Judy) Elizabethtown, KY, Dr. Christopher Doehring (Marla), Carmel, IN, and Annette Martin (Jeff), Birmingham, AL, his brother, Charles Doehring and his grandchildren: Sonnie Givens, Hunter Givens, Drew Doehring (Sadie), Luke Doehring, Jenna Doehring, Chris Doehring, Emily Doehring, Jeffrey Martin (Millie), Anna Martin, Jaelyn Martin and a great-grandson, Oliver Doehring.

Sonny was preceded in death by his parents and siblings: Mary Lou Shea, Lyle Doehring and Nancy Doehring.

Sonny will be remembered for his deep commitment to the Lord, dedication to his family, love of community and spirit of service to others.

A Memorial Service for Sonny will be held: Saturday, May 9, 2026

1:00 PM Visitation • 2:00 PM Service Asbury United Methodist Church 6690 Cahaba Valley Rd.

Birmingham, AL 35242

**Donations may be made in Sonny’s memory to “The Anchor Respite Program” at Asbury UMC, Birmingham, AL, “MAP International”(Medical Access Program for undeveloped nations), and “UMCOR” (United Methodist Committee On Relief.)