Samuel D. Dotson Jr.

Samuel D. Dotson Jr. of Brandon, MS., peacefully passed away at the age of 81 on April 24, 2025, surrounded by his loving children. He was born May 26, 1943 to Samuel D. Dotson Sr. and Celestine Dotson in Jackson, MS.
Sam married the love of his life, Jeweline (Jerri) Williams on July 22, 1961. In 1963, Sam and Jerri relocated to Waukegan, Illinois. In 1968, he went to work for Johnson Outboard Marine Corporation in Waukegan, and dedicated 31 years of service before his retirement in 1999. Sam was a member of St. Paul Catholic Church, serving many years as Eucharistic Minister, participant with the church choir and was a 4 th Degree member of the Knights of Columbus.
Sam had a funny sense of humor, a big jokester and was the life of the party. He loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren, who affectionately called him "Poppy". He loved to BBQ, riding his motorcycle, fishing, hunting, and playing his music and his trumpet.
Sam leaves to cherish his memories, his son Victor D. Dotson of Brandon MS; daughter, Samantha M. Dotson-Cruz of Brandon, MS; son, Samuel (Silvia) D. Dotson III of Port Richey, FL; Three sisters, Danetta Betancourt; Sandra Dukes; Robin (William) Howard; sister-in laws, Irene Derden; Doris Cox Bell, Grandsons: Shafi D. Darr Sr.; Carlos M. Cruz Jr; Samuel (Juan) L. Zavala; Malik Dotson; Jakobe K. Attaway. Granddaughters: Samaria D. Dotson; Siani D. Dotson; Daniela S. Dotson; Danea S. Dotson; two great-grandsons, five great grand-daughters and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends
Sam was preceded in death by his wife, Jeweline (Jerri) Dotson; mother, Celestine Slack; father, Samuel D. Dotson Sr.; step-father, Roosevelt Slack; step-mother, Gloria Dotson; sister, Helen Dotson-Cavett; Brothers: Doyle Dotson and Danny Dotson; and great grand-daughter, Sytera M. Darr.