Shelva Jean Dotson

Loving Tribute to Shelva Jean (Baker) Dotson
Shelva Jean (Baker) Dotson
May 31, 1938 – July 6, 2025
"I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith " 2 Timothy 4:7
It is with heartfelt love that we remember Shelva Jean (Baker) Dotson, who slipped quietly from this world on July 6, 2025, at her home in Phelps, Kentucky, surrounded by her beloved family.
Born at home on May 31, 1938, in Thacker, West Virginia, she was the cherished firstborn of Hansel and Lillian (Blankenship) Lester. She was preceded in death by both parents, two infant sisters Jeanettalee Lester, Fayalee Lester, an infant niece Donna Ferrell, and her special brother-in-law Lacey Ferrell.
Her life was blessed by enduring love through three marriages to Kermit Dotson, Rev. Berton Baker, and Jessie Dotson Jr., with each preceding her in death. She was well acquainted with both the joy and heartbreak of motherhood, as she deeply grieved the premature loss of two of her children – Pamela Baker Fields and Doyle Baker. Nonetheless, she remained equally loving and devoted to her remaining three children - Yvonna Carol (Bernie) Fields, Barry (Kathi) Baker, and Lawanna (Charles) McGuire, her treasured son-in-law Jimmy Fields and beloved daughter-in-law Valerie Baker. She also loved her honorary daughter and true friend, Jennifer Dixon. She is survived by her cherished sister Monica Ferrell, who was truly her best friend and confidant.
She was so special to each of her grandchildren, and in return she found no greater earthly joy than time spent with them:
· Adriana (Kevin) Hackney and children Cameron, Trey, and Kaidynce
· Kayla (Mike) Smith and children Gabriel and Ethan
· Brandon McGuire and children Westin and Whitley
· Dustin (Antonia) Fields and children Preston and Eli
· Jeana (Jeremy) Hensley and child Carter
· Joshua (Mellissa) Baker and child Adelynn Jean
· Samantha (Chris) Frederick and children Harrison and Henry
· Keaton (Brittany) Baker
· Aleigha Baker (Tucker Dimmick) and child Honor
Otherwise, she leaves behind a host of extended family and friends who will miss her deeply.
As the founding First Lady of Faith Mission Church in McCarr, KY (1966–1988), alongside the founding pastor Rev. Berton Baker, she was a beacon of compassion and faith. She believed ministry meant "loving without borders"-a legacy she lived every day.
Service & Celebration
· Honoring services will be conducted on Friday, July 11, 2025, with visitation open to the public at 6:00 p.m., service at 7 p.m. with Bro. Opie Harris officiating.
· The closing farewell service will be on Saturday, July 12, 2025, at 12 noon with her pastor, Bro. Jimmy Fields officiating.
· Interment will conclude at Mountain View Memorial Gardens, Huddy, KY
· Any expressions of sympathy are warmly welcomed and may be sent to:
Faith Mission Church, 10720 State Hwy 1056, McCarr, KY 41544.
A special heartfelt thanks to Dr. William Fannin and the Appalachian Hospice team for their attentive, compassionate care.
Closing Verse
"Who can find a virtuous woman? Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all." - Proverbs 31:10, 28–29
Obituary Loving written by the family
Expressions of sympathy may also be shared with the family by visiting www.chambersfuneralservices.com
Arrangements for the Shelva Jean (Baker) Dotson family are in the care of Chambers Funeral Services, Inc., in Matewan, WV.
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Chambers Funeral Services