William “W.J.” Dodson, 80, passed away December 12, 2019 at Mercy Hospital in Carthage. W.J. was born June 26, 1939 in Reeds, MO to Clare A. and Joyce A. “Dudman” Dodson. He was a pipefitter at Atlas Powder Plant (ICI Explosives) for 31 years, retiring in 1997. He was a member of Abundant Life Christian Center in Joplin and a founding member of the Center Creek Social Club. W.J.’s favorite pastimes were woodcarving, singing and spending time with his grandchildren.
W.J. was united in marriage to Pat “Pringle” in Arkansas on November 23, 1995; she survives.
W.J. is also survived by one son, Gary J. Dodson (Gail) of Joplin; one daughter, Julie L. Simpson (Rod) of Washington State; one step-son, Ken Jennison (Calvin) of San Francisco; one sister, Suella Bohrer of Branson; five grandchildren, Laura Dodson, Sarah Dodson, Dereck Dodson, Taylor Simpson and Ashley Maine (Lucas); and two great grandchildren.
W.J. was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Carene DeLong.
Visitation will be held at 1:00 p.m. Monday, December 16, 2019 at Ulmer Funeral Home. Services will immediately follow at 2:00 p.m. Burial will be at Dudman Springs Cemetery.
Online condolences may be made at www.ulmerfh.com.
Arrangements are under the direction of Ulmer Funeral Home.
