John Edward Dotson

Following a steady stream of visiting family and friends from near and far, John Dotson passed away on August 16, 2024, at the age of 58, after a brief battle with lung cancer. He was surrounded by his loving family as his soul departed for heaven.

John’s death is mourned by so many as he was loved by everyone whose path he crossed. Chief among those who will miss John’s unfailing sense of humor, kindness, generosity, and loving spirit are his adoring wife, Gina; treasured stepchildren, Samantha Gittins and Tim Gittins, Jr.; and new granddaughter, Eisley. 

John also leaves behind his loving siblings, Jim (Beth) Dotson, Diane Thatcher, and Dorothy Moser; sister-in-law, Cindy Dotson; nephew, Bill Dotson (Danielle); nieces, Elaine Skeggs (Mike) and Sharon Dotson; and great nephew, William. He will also be deeply missed by his parents-in-law, Joe and Diane Busa; sisters-in-law, Julie Busa and Angela Busa, and extended family members, and countless friends. 

John was preceded in death by his parents, William and Cheryl; sisters, Denise Dotson and Donna Baldt; brother, Bill Dotson; brothers-in-law, Dick Thatcher and Tom Baldt; and three infant siblings.

John was born in Akron, Ohio and grew up in Firestone Park. After graduating from Garfield High School, he went on to earn a business degree from The University of Akron. He was a proud member of the Phi Sigma Kappa (Phi Sig) fraternity and remained close with his fraternity brothers throughout his life. 

John tried on a number of jobs for size, excelling at them all, and making many lifelong friends along the way. After managing several Barnes & Noble college bookstores, John settled into his career at The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, most recently as Supply Chain Analyst. John formed strong, caring relationships with many colleagues throughout his eighteen years with Goodyear.

John was a member of First Evangelical Congregational Church in Firestone Park and had many fond childhood memories of Camp ECCO. John was baptized by his sister, Diane, in his final days.

A faithful Ohio sports fan, John was convinced year after year that the Cleveland Browns would excel, despite all evidence to the contrary. He was an amazing armchair coach with an impressive amount of knowledge of nearly every sport, their teams, players, and stats.

John lit up every room he entered with his quick wit and infectious smile and regularly entertained his family and friends with jokes and funny stories. He loved the beach, Jimmy Buffet and country music, and reminiscing about good times with friends and family.

Above all, John was a family man. He narrowly escaped bachelorhood when he was united in marriage at the age of 46 with his soulmate, Gina. He adored his stepchildren and took great joy in his role of father. John’s love language was service to others, which he expressed by spoiling his grateful family. John willingly assumed the role of chief grocery shopper, chef, landscaper, and grill master. He loved to spend time with his wife and children, taking road trips, joining them in a bowling league, and playing mini golf, cards, and board games. He loved his pets, Lulu and Cinnamon, and he embraced his wife’s love of Christmas and 70’s music.

John’s family extends their heartfelt thanks to the Cleveland Clinic for their excellent care of John during his illness, including Akron General Medical Center, the oncology department and intensive care unit of Cleveland Clinic’s main campus, and the Justin T. Rogers Hospice Care Center.

Family and friends are invited to visit at Newcomer Funeral Home (131 N. Canton Road, Akron) on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, from 5:00 - 8:00 pm and to the funeral service on Wednesday, August 28 at 11:00 am at the same location. Inurnment will be held at a later date. 

Attendees are invited to honor John by wearing their favorite Ohio sports team gear.

Donations may be made to the First Evangelical Congregational Church in Akron or the Cleveland Clinic Foundation.