Patricia Pat Dotson

Patricia "Pat" Dotson, 80, died at 5:40 a.m. July 23, 2012, at Springview Manor Nursing Home. She was born Jan. 24, 1932, in Lima to Homer and Woneta Oakley Dotson, who preceded her in death. Miss Dotson retired as a teacher from Lima City Schools. She was a 1950 graduate of Lima South High School and received her bachelor's degree from Ohio Northern University, Ada, and her master's degree from St. Francis. She also completed courses at the University of Dayton and Bowling Green State University. She was a member of Grace United Methodist Church, now Trinity United Methodist Church, for more than 70 years, where she a sang in the choir and taught Sunday school for several years. She had been a Girl Scout leader. She regularly attended the Lima South graduate luncheons. She had been a board member of Top Mark Federal Credit Union. She was an original member of the Order of Rainbow Girls and a 50-year member of the Order of Eastern Star. She played in a pinochle card club for several years. She will be remembered for the deep impact she made, not only on her students, but also on their families. She will also be remembered for her willingness to always help, even long after her retirement, and her dedication to her many friends she made throughout her life. She was instrumental in organizing and heading the Dotson family reunion, the Dotson annual girls weekend at her home, and Thanksgiving Day. Survivors include a brother-in-law, Jerry Rhinock, of Lima; two nephews, Scot Rhinock and Steve (Michana) Rhinock; a great-nephew, Corey James Rhinock; and family friend and caregiver, Jan Cheney, of Lima. She was preceded in death by a sister, Linda Rhinock. Services will begin at 11 a.m. Thursday at Trinity United Methodist Church. The Rev. David Harris will officiate. Burial will be in St. Matthew Cemetery, Cridersville. Friends may call from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Chiles-Laman Funeral & Cremation Services, Shawnee Chapel, and one hour prior to services Thursday at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association. Condolences may be expressed at chiles-lamanfh.com.