Ronald Erwin Dotson's Obituary
Ronald Erwin Dotson, 80, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by family on March 27, 2026. A devoted husband, loving father, grandfather, and faithful servant of God, Ronald lived a life rooted in faith, family, and dedication.
Ronald was born on October 12, 1945, to Wilbur A. Dotson and Rosella Macintyre Dotson. He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Betty Jo Dotson of 36 years, who passed away on July 17, 2012; his sister Nena Galligan and his beloved grandchild, Jamie Blake.
He leaves behind to cherish his memory his loving wife of 13 years, Sharon Gaynel Dotson. He was a proud and devoted father to his sons, Michael Ray Dotson and wife Tara; Jesse Robert Dotson and wife Amy; Timothy E. Dotson; and Ronald E. Dotson, Jr. and wife Sheila; and his daughters, Rhonda Leigh Holaway and husband Randle; Maria Brennon and husband Joe; and Karen Runnels.
Ronald’s legacy continues through his many grandchildren: Brooke Strange and husband Kenan; Holly Beth and husband Braden; Kaleigh Choat and husband Russell; Michael Dotson, Jr. and fiancée Hayden, Drake Dotson, Kaden Dotson, Raegan Dotson, Char-leigh Dotson, Shawn Park, Jeremy Runnels, Christian Collins, Timothy Dotson, Britney Dotson, Joshua Dotson, Ashley Holaway, Allyson Holaway and fiance Colby Peasgood.
He was also blessed with many great-grandchildren: Isabelle, Wyatt, Chloe, and Quinn Strange; Anniston Blakely, Channing, Ella, and Heidi Beth; Rilynn and Huntley Choat; Seth Dotson; Emerson Yarbro, Elaina Hedtke; Paisley, Cohen, and Blakely Collins; Atlas Runnels; Dani Rose and Chloe Brown; Mary Jane and Ezra Dotson; Poppi and Jace Park, Tatum Peasgood.
Ronald was a 20-year Army veteran and served for an additional 20 years of civil service at Ft. Polk. He was a man of deep faith who served as a deacon at Old Anacoco Church and was a licensed minister. One of his greatest joys was officiating the marriages of most of his children and many of his grandchildren, leaving behind a spiritual legacy that will endure for generations. He also had a special passion for his puppet ministry through which he shared his faith and brought joy, laughter, and the word of God to countless lives.
He had a passion for photography, capturing moments that would become treasured memories for those he loved. He also enjoyed collecting coins and stamps, bowling, and square dancing. Known for his strong work ethic, organization, and unwavering faith, Ronald was a man who gave his all in everything he did.
Visitation will be held on March 30, 2026, from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Labby Memorial Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held on March 31, 2026, at 10:00 AM, with Pastor Hoychick officiating.
Those honored to serve as pallbearers are Randle Holaway, Michael Dotson, Jesse Dotson, Kaden Dotson, Michael Dotson Jr., and Drake Dotson. Honorary pallbearers include Braden Beth, Russell Choat, Kenan Strange, Ron Dotson Jr., and Timothy Dotson.
Ronald will be remembered for his steadfast faith, his love for his family, and the example he set for all who knew him. His life was a testament to devotion, strength, and grace, and his memory will be cherished forever.
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