James H. Dotson

Dotson

James H. Dotson “Jim,” of Vienna, WV, peacefully entered the arms of his Heavenly Father surrounded by the love of his family on May 6, 2026, at the age of 82.

Born on April 14, 1944, in West Union, WV, he was the son of Herman Hoy Dotson and Nettie Mae (Collins) Dotson. Jim proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War era as an Army Specialist before returning home to build a life centered around family and hard work. He later retired from Ames after many years of dedicated service.

In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his siblings, Larry Dotson, Alfred Dotson, and Mary Lou Buckley.

Jim is survived by his loving wife and caregiver of 63 years, Janina Dotson; his three sons, Herman Dotson, Michael (Lori) Dotson, and Rick Dotson; his grandchildren, Nicole Dotson, Abigail Dotson (Levi Hays), and Eric Dotson (Kaylee Hafer); his great-granddaughter, Harper Hays; and his siblings, Allen Dotson and Janie Dotson.

Jim shared a beautiful and lasting love with his wife, Janina. Throughout his life, he often spoke of how beautiful she was and deeply admired her intelligence, strength, and devotion to their family. Their 63 years of marriage were built on love, commitment, family, and a lifetime of memories together.

Jim cherished time spent hunting and fishing with his sons and treasured the many memories made at his father’s cabin in Doddridge County. Time spent there with family brought him great happiness and created stories and traditions that lasted for generations. He especially enjoyed his wife’s holiday cooking and treasured the close relationships he shared with his grandchildren, Abigail and Eric.

Jim leaves behind a lifetime of love, memories, and traditions that will continue through his family.

The family will announce a celebration of Jim’s life at a later date