Jo Ann Dotson's Obituary
JoAnn Dotson, 80, died peacefully at her home on April 28, 2026. She was born on April 25, 1946, to Edward Dotson Sr., and Millie Dotson in Memphis, TN. She graduated from St. Thomas School of Nursing in Nashville, TN in 1968, where she served as Class President.
JoAnn was born with a servant’s heart which served her well during her 40-year nursing career, which began as a surgical nurse at St. Joseph Hospital in Memphis and as a Cardiac Cath Lab nurse at St. Francis-Park and culminating at St. Francis-Bartlett. She truly loved helping people.
She continued serving her community by volunteering at the Society of St. Vincent de Paul’s soup kitchen, various food distributions through Catholic Charities and at Church of the Nativity’s Society of St. Vincent de Paul, helping those in need.
She had an easy manner, a smile on her face and was always ready to give a hug. She loved golf, pickle ball, traveling with friends, and all foods chocolate. JoAnn’s banana pudding was always in demand.
In addition to her parents, she is proceeded in death by her sister, Mildred “Sissy” Dotson. She is survived by her brother, Edward Dotson, Jr. (Suzanne) of Alto, New Mexico, and nephew, Paul Dotson (Jennifer) of Pangburn, Arkansas, and a host of friends who will miss her dearly.
The visitation will be held on Thursday May 7, 2026, at Church of the Nativity, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. The funeral service will begin at 11:00 AM. Immediately after the funeral service, Church of the Nativity will be hosting a reception. For those who would like to join at the cemetery, the committal service will take place following the funeral at the Rotunda of Memorial Park Cemetery and invited to join the others back at Church of the Nativity for the reception.
Memorial Park Funeral Home is entrusted with arrangements.
Donations in Ms. JoAnn's name can be made to Church of the Naivety, 5955 Saint Elmo Rd, Bartlett, TN 38135.
What’s your fondest memory of Jo?
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Share a story where Jo's kindness touched your heart.
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