Nelda A. Dotson

Nelda A. Dotson, 88, of Robinson, IL, entered into the loving arms of Jesus on Tuesday, April 2, 2024, after passing away at Robinson Rehab & Nursing. She lived a life embroidered with the love of family, the joy of service, and the deep-rooted faith that guided her every step.

Born on February 26, 1936, in Saint Charles, MO, Nelda's story is one of love's triumphant transformation. Her romance with Rainey Dotson began amidst the hustle of the Noah's Ark restaurant in St. Charles. Though she didn't care too much for him as her manager, these initial sparks of contention gave way to a love as deep as the ocean. Beginning with their first date on New Year's Eve 1969 to exchanging their vows on April 26, 1970, Nelda and Rainey's partnership would span nearly 54 years, a testament to enduring devotion and unwavering fidelity to each other. Together, they journeyed through life's highs and lows, their hearts and hands intertwined.

With Rainey by her side, they forged a path of education and inspiration, moving to Florida to help a friend with a Christian school. Five years of teaching not only shaped the minds but also the hearts of countless young souls. Their entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly as they opened Gabriel's, a Christian bookstore, and in doing so, they nurtured the faith of the community of Defuniak, FL for 15 years. At the same time, Nelda's artistry blossomed in the form of exquisite silk arrangements at Defuniak Imports, a testament to her belief that beauty should endure.

Her hands were rarely still, for Nelda was an artisan at the loom of life, crocheting afghans that wrapped others in warmth, a metaphor for her own enveloping love. A culinary maestro, Nelda's table was a place of communion where flavors mingled with laughter and fellowship. She was a cornerstone of her Assembly of God church in Florida, living the Scripture, "Be still and know that I am God" (Psalm 46:10), a verse she would continue to embody when her sight waned and her ability to read and crochet faded. Nelda's spirit was too vivacious to be hindered, for she was a doer, always in motion, always creating and giving.

A sweet, sassy soul, Nelda Dotson told it like it was, her candor as refreshing as the first blooms after a cold winter. Her anticipation of spring mirrors our anticipation of the heavenly kingdom, where we trust she now resides. As we bid farewell to Nelda, let us carry forth her legacy with the same zeal and love she bestowed upon us. May we honor her memory by embodying the virtues she lived by: a spirit undaunted by trials, faith that endures beyond sight, and love that knows no bounds. In the words of the Apostle Paul: "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith". Indeed, Nelda has done all this and more. Now she rests in the glorious embrace of our Creator, leaving behind a tapestry of memories woven with the threads of her indomitable spirit.

Nelda's love for her family was the compass by which she navigated life, her every decision and sacrifice a testament to this unwavering priority. Nelda's legacy continues through her beloved husband, Rainey; her devoted daughters & sons-in-law, Robin & Jim Davis and Christy & Dan Carmichael; and the precious lives of her five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, John & Minnie (Gaul) Thompson; by her brother, John Thompson; as well as another brother and sister.

It was Nelda's wish to be cremated. The Goodwine Funeral Home in Robinson is in charge of these arrangements.