Clara May Dotson

In Loving Memory of Clara Dotson ("Ma")

October 9, 1933 – June 21, 2026

"She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come." — Proverbs 31:25

Clara Dotson, affectionately known as "Ma," passed away peacefully on June 21, 2026, at Hospice of Southern Kentucky at the age of 92. While our hearts grieve her absence, we rejoice knowing she is now in the presence of her Lord and Savior, reunited with the love of her life.

Clara was the strongest, most capable woman anyone could have the privilege of knowing. She lived a life defined by resilience, generosity, quiet strength, unwavering faith, and unconditional love for her family and friends. She faced life's challenges like a true cedar swamp savage—with determination, grit, and grace—always putting others before herself. Fiercely independent and endlessly resourceful, she carried burdens and pain without complaint, cared for everyone around her before herself, and met adversity with a quiet strength that inspired everyone who knew her. She had an ornery streak that could make anyone smile, survived hardships that would have broken many people, yet never allowed those hardships to define who she was.

One of Clara's greatest blessings was the life she shared with her beloved husband, Joe "Pa" Dotson (September 18, 1931 – July 13, 2023). Their marriage was built on faith, hard work, loyalty, and an unwavering devotion to one another. Through life's joys and hardships, they stood side by side, creating a home filled with love, laughter, strength, and family. Although Clara deeply missed Pa after his passing, we find comfort in knowing they are together once again.

To me, Pa was much more than a grandfather—he was the only father figure I ever knew. He protected me without hesitation, loved me unconditionally, and showed me what a good man looks like. Watching the love and commitment that he and Ma shared taught me what family truly means. Their legacy of faith, devotion, and unconditional love will continue to live on through all of us.

For my entire life, Ma was my constant. I always knew I could call her, talk with her, laugh with her, or simply sit and listen to her. No matter what life brought, she was always there. She was my home, my confidant, my safe place, and my friend. There wasn't anything I wouldn't have done for her, and I know she knew that without question. She was, and always will be, my Ma.

Clara cherished her small circle of family and friends deeply. She is survived by her granddaughter, Maria Liverett; her grandson, Daniel Ogilvie; her cherished friends Bryan and Sarah Lee and their son, Braylen Lee; her stepsons, Ken Dotson and David Dotson; great-grandchildren Kerri and Kayla; Doris Monroe; along with many other extended family members and dear friends whose lives she touched with her kindness, ornery spirit, unwavering faith, and incredible strength.

She was also blessed with an amazing church family who surrounded her with love, friendship, and unwavering support. Our family will forever be grateful to Bill Utley, whom Clara loved and trusted like family, as well as the many others from her church community who faithfully stood beside her. Your prayers, compassion, friendship, and countless acts of kindness meant more than words can ever express. Thank you.

My husband, Herb, loved Ma as family. He would have done absolutely anything for her, and she knew she was cherished not only by him, but by everyone fortunate enough to truly know her.

Clara leaves behind a legacy of faith, strength, perseverance, and unconditional love. While our hearts are heavy beyond words, we find peace in knowing that Pa was there to welcome his sweetheart home with open arms. After nearly three years apart, they are together again in the presence of the Lord. We miss you both more than words can say, but we rejoice in God's promise that, through Christ, this is not goodbye—it is simply, "Until we meet again."

If Heaven has gardens to tend, fences to mend, or someone in need of a helping hand, we have no doubt that Ma and Pa have already found the work, side by side, lending a helping hand and making Heaven just a little brighter.

She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

"Thank you, Mom, for every phone call, every hug, every lesson, every laugh, and every moment you gave me. Until we meet again, I will carry you with me every day. I love you."

Forever your granddaughter,

Maria Liverett