Dooley was born in 1924 in Dallas County, Arkansas.  Upon graduating from Princeton High School, Dooley joined the Armed Services where he served with the 448th Bomb Group of the 8th Air Force during World War II.  Dooley began a long and distinguished political career in 1950 at the age of 23 while he was a student at Henderson State Teachers College.  As a Representative in the Arkansas State House of Representatives, he represented Dallas and Ouachita Counties.  Following his tenure in the Arkansas State House, he served in the Arkansas State Senate for twelve years.

For more than a half century, Dooley owned and operated Womack Brothers Realty.  Dooley was also involved in the First United Methodist Church of Camden, and enjoyed both hunting and fishing.

Camden, Ouachita County, and the State of Arkansas have lost one of its most ardent supporters.  Dooley had a deep love for Camden and South Arkansas, and dedicated a lifetime working to make it a better place.

While Dooley may no longer be with us, his spirit and legacy will live on forever in the lives he touched. My deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences go out to his beloved wife of 55 years, Amy; his three sons, Lance, Tim, and Carey; his daughter, Anna; and his grandchildren, Jacob, Wesley, Taylor, Joshua, Erin, Leah, and Diana.