Hershal Coy Dotson

Hershal Coy Dotson, age 85,  of Stilwell, Oklahoma, passed away suddenly at his home on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at the age of 85 years and 6 months. He was born in Berryville, Arkansas, to Lloyd and Evelyn Dotson on March 3rd, 1940.

Hershal spent his career working in the utility industry. After two years working for the Florida Keys Electric Company in Key Largo, Florida, he moved back to his hometown of Berryville and went to work for the Berryville Telephone Company, which soon became Alltel Telephone Company. In 1974, he accepted a transfer to Stilwell, Oklahoma, as supervisor of operations for Stilwell, Baron, and Vian, and he worked there until his retirement in 1999. He worked at Alltel for 36 years. He continued to make his home in Stilwell until his death.

Hershal was active in the horse industry, showing and racing quarter horses in Arkansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma. After moving to Oklahoma, he served a term on the Adair County Fair board of directors. He enjoyed working with youth to help them improve their horse showing skills. He joined Stilwell Kiwanis, and last year he received a Distinguished Service Award to recognize his 50 years of service to Kiwanis International. He also served as president of the AdCo Kiwanis Club.

He loved Western history, and after retirement, he and Penny enjoyed traveling, mostly throughout the western part of the United States, with a fifth-wheel trailer. They created many fond memories as they explored new places and attractions. They also enjoyed cruising, primarily to Caribbean countries.

Hershal loved outdoor cooking with his large collection of cast iron pans, and if company was coming, he sometimes stacked them with dessert, bread, and meat, all cooking at the same time. He also has a collection of several grills and smokers, which he always put to excellent use. He always had a faithful dog that rode in the passenger seat of his side-by-side and made sure the ranch was running properly. He often had coffee in the morning with a group of regulars to catch up on the community gossip. 

Hershal is survived by Penny Dotson, his wife of 64 years; his daughter, Michelle Merriott, and husband, Jess, of Stilwell, Oklahoma; his sister, Linda Williams, of Berryville, Arkansas; two sisters-in-law, Jenelle Dotson and Larita Dotson of Berryville, Arkansas, and his daughter-in-law, April Dotson, of Breaux Bridge, Louisiana. He has three grandchildren: Olivia Dotson of Breaux Bridge, Louisiana. Matt Merriott and wife Julea' of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, and Daniel Merriott and his wife, Callie, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma. He has three great-grandchildren: Mila and Madi Merriott and Peyton Merriott. He is also survived by numerous nephews, cousins, and friends who mourn his passing.

He was preceded in death by his son, Michael Wayne Dotson, West Linn, Oregon; his parents, Evelyn and Lloyd Dotson; two brothers, Junior Dotson and Robert Dotson; and brother-in-law Lonnie Williams, all of Berryville, Arkansas.

Hershal will be greatly missed by all who loved him.

A Celebration of Life with family and friends will be held at his home in Stilwell on Sunday, September 7, at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Adair County Fair, P.O. Box 1083, Stilwell, Oklahoma 74960