Obituary of Larry Dotson

Larry Dotson was born in Welch, West Virginia, on December 5, 1951. He spent his childhood in Ohio, Michigan, and Oregon before settling in Glenoma, east Lewis County. He graduated from White Pass High School, where he was the unofficial pep bus cheerleader for all the games.  Later he was drafted and served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He was self-employed at his Headhunters salon in Morton and LTD salon in Lacey. Larry was a national representative for Redken and a designer at six salons in Thurston County.

 

Larry exemplified charisma. He found his passion for hairdressing as a teen, which extended through his 50-year career and, with that career, he perfected the gift of gab. His clients adored him as he always made sure he could accommodate their requests. For instance, he would go to their homes if it was easier for them. His clients in Morton and Olympia numbered in the hundreds; many were clients for decades. The condolences have included, "Who is going to cut/color my hair now?!"

 

Larry was a coveted dance partner with an engaging smile and dimpled cheeks, the life of any party, a singer in his own mind and a fashionista: a smart dresser with Michael Bolton dreads. He organized charitable fashion shows in Morton that were the height of the "social calendar.” He catered large parties, cooked amazing dishes, loved flowers, and his decor was so finely tuned you were gobsmacked.

 

He loved traveling with friends and family to Mexico and Hawaii.

 

He was a devoted father to his two children, now adults, Dara and Troy, and the neighborhood kids.  The family home garage was the local Lacey hangout. Food and fun were always provided and a welcome mat extended to all.

 

Larry died on March 7, 2021, of a massive heart attack. He is survived by his beloved partner, Bill Fovargue; his mother, Goldie; his brother, David Adkins (lives in Ohio); children, Dara and Troy; his niece, Gina Ortega; his grandnephew, Jackson; and his best friend and former wife, Toni Dotson, all of Olympia.

 

Larry was an animal lover. In lieu of flowers, feel free to donate to Animal Services, 3120 Martin Way E., Olympia, WA 98506.

 

A gathering will be planned at a later date. 

 

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