Jo Anne Arlene Dotson

Jo Anne Arlene Dotson, born on June 14, 1940, in Long Beach, California, to Frank French and Kathern Brooks, passed away on January 16, 2025, in Nashville, Tennessee, at the age of 84. She is preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Raymond Gordon French. Jo Anne is survived by her brothers and sisters – Gary Brooks, Steven Brooks, Cathy Simko, Mary Ellen Brooks and Mary Edwards. She is also survived by her loving family, including her five children: Lisa Berger, Linda Dotson, Lori Dotson, William (Billy) Dotson Jr, and Eric Hernandez and their children:

Lisa Berger – Gentry, ARAndrew AllenLacy and DrewElizabeth ThompsonStaley and AbramColleen RinchartLilly and BenjaminNicholas BergerLinda Dotson – Darby, PACasandra EddinsJames, Leah, Abigale, and SophiaDesiree HatcherFur babies – Brownie and ChipLori Dotson-Uebler – Brookhaven, PAAmanda AikensOlive, Cora, and EllisHeather LinvillAubrey, Mia, and MichaelAlicia WyantLucy and WestonCJ UeblerWilliam (Billy) Dotson Jr. – Burns, TNKristie HarpHudson, Baby Harp, and Fur Baby FlynnKaylie FarleyFur babies Elle, Bandit, and CageFur Baby – Rosco Dotson Eric Hernandez – Upper Chichester, PALiam HernandezHunter Hernandez

A devoted mother, grammy, great-grammy, and friend, Jo Anne took immense pride in her family. As a loving grammy, she embraced her role with joy, nurturing 15 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren, and she was a proud “fur-grammy” to six fur babies. Her family was her greatest joy, and she treasured every moment spent with them, creating memories that will be cherished for generations to come. Jo Anne was eagerly anticipating the arrival of a new great-grandchild, baby Harp, due in June.

Jo Anne was a woman of many qualities—stubborn, determined, strong, and independent—traits that defined her and made her a force to be reckoned with. Her strength and resilience shone through in everything she did. She was selfless, always putting the needs of others before her own, and her heart was filled with love and kindness. Whether you needed a shoulder to cry on, a word of advice, or simply someone to listen, Jo Anne was always there. She would even give you her last dollar if you needed it, as she had a generosity that knew no bounds. 

Her presence was a gift to all who knew her. She spent the majority of her life serving others as a CNA for over 50 years. Jo Anne’s determination and independence never wavered as she faced life’s challenges with a sense of humor that could brighten even the darkest days. Her patients, family, and friends will forever remember her for her compassion, her courage, and the unwavering love she so freely gave.

Jo Anne’s passing leaves a profound emptiness in the hearts of all who loved her, but her legacy of love, strength, and kindness will continue to inspire those she leaves behind.

A private celebration of life will be held in her honor. Instead of flowers, the family requests donations be made in her name to Alive Hospice located at 1718 Patterson St, Nashville, TN 37203. (www.alivehospice.org) 

Jo Anne Arlene Dotson's spirit lives on in the hearts of her loved ones, friends, siblings, and extended family. May she rest in peace.