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Shirley Dotson

1932 - 2020

Shirley Dotson obituary, 1932-2020, Tacoma, WA

BORN

1932

DIED

2020

Shirley Dotson Obituary

Shirley Dotson
March 17, 1932 - December 25, 2020
Tacoma, Washington - Lifelong Tacoma resident Shirley Jean Dotson was born on St. Patrick's Day, 1932 and died on Christmas Day, 2020. She was truly an inspiration to all who knew her. In addition to raising a family of 8 children, she was an accomplished artist, teacher, quilter and seamstress, beloved to many. Shirley began her illustrious career as an artist in the making of ceramics, going on to win the prestigious Peggy Award. Her many other talents grew to include making porcelain dolls, china painting, watercolor painting and more. Her art won many awards both locally and nationally, including Grand Champion and Best in Show for her China Painting. She published several articles for the publication The China Painter and was a member of the World Organization of China Painters. She also served as local Branch President and member of the National League of American Pen Women. Shirley shared her passion for art with the many students who came to her for classes in ceramics, china painting, porcelain doll making, and watercolor painting. In death, she is reunited with her parents and brother, husband Franklin, daughter Christine, and sons Stephen and Robert, grandchildren Patricia, Lacey, Eric, Patrick and Casey. She is survived by her daughter Sharon Smith (Edward Smith), son Richard Smith, Daughter Mary Katherine Wentworth, daughter Mary Elizabeth Crawford (Norman Crawford), son David Smith (Kelly Smith), as well as 19 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren, in addition to countless friends and former students. She left a legacy that will live on in the hearts of all those who loved her.

Published by & from Jan. 9 to Jan. 10, 2021.
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