James Howard Dotson Sr.

James (Jim) Howard Dotson, Sr. was born on January 8, 1934, and passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 6, 2026, at the remarkable age of 92. A native of Dickson, Tennessee, Jim ventured south to St. Bernard Parish at the age of 21. It was there that he built the foundation of his life, meeting his beloved wife, Ann Rodrigue Dotson, with whom he shared 66 years of marriage until her passing in 2021.

In his early decades, Jim was known for his strong work ethic and skilled hands. He worked for many years as a stevedore on the New Orleans riverfront for Lykes Lines. Simultaneously, he left a tangible mark on his community as a talented local contractor, having built and remodeled numerous homes throughout St. Bernard Parish during the 1960s and 1970s. Though a severe work-related accident in 1978 permanently cut his career short and left him disabled, the structures he built stood as a testament to his industrious years.

Twenty-six years ago, Jim and Ann relocated to Mandeville to live out their later years closer to their children. Jim’s enduring legacy lives on through the large, vibrant family he and Ann created.

He is survived by his three children: James H. Dotson, Jr. (Janet), Barry J. Dotson (Donna), and Stephanie Dotson Luckow (Hank). He was the proud grandfather of five grandchildren: Lindsey Dotson Avitia (Jonathan, dec.), Drew Dotson (Ruth), Meredith Dotson Burst (Shawn), Quinn Dotson (Kaitlyn), and James “Jay” Dotson, III (Megan). His legacy further multiplies through his seven great-grandchildren: Hadley Burst, Anderson Burst, Presley Burst, James “Jett” Dotson, IV, August Dotson, Graham Dotson, and Lewis Dotson.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Floyd and Allen Dotson, and his siblings, Tom Dotson, Dorothy Graybill, and Bill Dotson. He is survived by his sister, Louise Ferguson.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to the wonderful staffs of Brookdale of Mandeville and Southern Grace Hospice for their compassionate care and support in his final days.

Burial will be private.