Frances Louise Dotson's Obituary
Mercedes/Edmond, Oklahoma – Frances Louise Dotson, 76, passed away on Thursday, February 26, 2026. She was born on August 9, 1949, in Honolulu, Hawaii, to Fred and Dorothea (Abbott) James. Her father worked for the Civil Aeronautics Administration (now the FAA), and when Frances was in middle school, the family relocated to Oklahoma.
Frances met the love of her life, Mark Randal Dotson, at an Oklahoma Sooners football party. What began as a chance meeting grew into a lifelong love story. They were married in 1984 and shared a devoted and joyful life together.
A dedicated and hardworking woman, Frances successfully balanced a full-time career while raising her son and daughter. Through diligence and determination, she worked her way up to become the Chief of Staff’s secretary at Children’s Hospital and McBride Clinic, where she remained until her retirement.
Frances had a creative spirit and loved crafts of every kind, especially designing and making beautiful handmade greeting cards. She also had a natural green thumb; her yard was always filled with vibrant flowers and thriving plants. A loyal Oklahoma Sooners fan, Frances rarely missed a game. She was also an avid reader, with more than 200 books on her Kindle.
Frances and Mark cherished their time traveling together, especially cruising to new destinations. In retirement, they spent their winters in the warm sunshine of Mercedes, Texas, where they enjoyed their park community and many dear friends. Her favorite place of all was the Dotson Lake House in Oklahoma, where she was surrounded by family and laughter. The annual Fourth of July fireworks on the lake were a treasured family tradition. Frances also delighted in hosting Christmas dinner each year, decorating her home beautifully, and creating lasting holiday memories for her loved ones.
Frances will be remembered for her kind and loving heart. She was always willing to lend a helping hand and absolutely adored her grandchildren, who brought her immense pride and joy.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Fred and Dorothea James, and her sister, Rosie Southard.
Frances is survived by her devoted husband, Mark Dotson; her daughter, Chandra Privratsky (Steve); her son, Jeffrey Snow (Samantha); her brother-in-law, Lee Southard; and her cherished grandchildren, Hudson Privratsky, Jameson Privratsky, Hank Snow, and Piper Snow.
A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.
What’s your fondest memory of Frances?
What’s a lesson you learned from Frances?
Share a story where Frances' kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Frances you’ll never forget.
How did Frances make you smile?