Phillip Eugene Dotson began his life on July 14, 1962, in Cleveland, Ohio. He was born from the union of Faith Dotson and Eugene Pickett. As a kid, he explored his passions and curiosity through books and his studies. Phillip attended Cleveland Public Schools, graduating from East High School in 1981.

After graduating high school, he attended Cleveland State for three years, studying math and sciences. He worked at Bond Court Hotel before proceeding to work for Yellow Freight. Phillip created a union with his high school sweetheart, Iris Kelley, and together they had four children: Phillip and Cameron Kelley-Dotson, Taylor, and Tyler Dotson.

Phillip was a lover of jazz music, long car rides around the neighborhood, and had an appreciation for anything science-related. He enjoyed watching sci-fi shows like Star Wars and Star Trek, and Shark Week on the Discovery Channel with his sons.

He worked hard and pushed himself to be the best and to build the life he wanted for his legacy. Phillip was inquisitive and curious about how things worked and were made.

Phillip enjoyed outdoor gardening and housework. Often, he would take time out of his busy work schedule to work on his home construction projects and yard work.

Phillip loved family gatherings down in Oberlin and at his Aunt Mildred’s house, who preceded him in death on April 25, 2025. He enjoyed taking time to talk with family—especially his cousins—whether inquiring about financial or life advice.

In 2021, Phillip retired from Yellow Freight and began endeavors of an early retirement. On May 12, 2025, at 7:57 a.m., Phillip passed on to the nether world of the Force.

He leaves behind four children, his mother Faith Dotson, and three siblings: Grace Dotson-Williams, Charity, and James Dotson. His favorite and most loved nephews, Jermaine and Elijah Dotson, as well as two great-nieces and three great-nephews, also survive him.

Phillip will always be remembered for his warm smile, quiet demeanor, infectious personality, and great ambition to position himself for success. Our family will miss him greatly and will honor his legacy of hard work, pursuit of learning, and inquisitiveness.