Michelle Elizabeth Dotson
OBITUARY
Michelle Elizabeth Dotson, born November 24,1947 in Oakland, California, passed away peacefully on June 9, 2026 in Reno, after a courageous battle with Myelodysplastic Syndrome. Michelle was raised in Oakland, and graduated from Fremont High School in 1965. In 1966 she enrolled at the University of Nevada, and began fifty-nine years of loving life in Nevada. After graduating from UNR in 1970, she began her career teaching mathematics in the Washoe County School District. From 1974-2014, she taught at Pine Middle School, retiring after a fulfilling career where she was known for her creative math projects and inspiring many of her students to follow their dreams. She also worked for Weight Watchers as a leader/counselor utilizing her teacher skills to motivate others. From 1983-2002 Michelle worked at the Nevada State Fair as the Contest Supervisor for the Cookie Bake-Off. She was a member of many community groups including- the Nevada Math Council, Lifelong Learning, Olli at the University of Nevada, and Crochet Society of UK. She was involved with St. Mary’s “On With Life” Breast Cancer Support Group, Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Organization, and Avon Walk for Breast Cancer. Michelle crocheted hats and prayer shawls for cancer patients, dropping hats off at her own infusion center. The day she entered the hospital for the last time, she was still crocheting for others. She was a talented seamstress, beloved teacher, devoted sister, aunt, great-aunt, and faithful friend. Throughout the years Michelle was a loving cat and dog mama. She always maintained a positive, non-judgemental attitude and was committed to living a life that made her both happy and joyful. She will be deeply missed and has a permanent place in our hearts. Sincere gratitude goes out to Dr. Suresh Reddy and the team at Cancer Care Specialists, the staff at Renown Infusion Center, Renown Hospice, and Sunlit Terrace Group Home.
Michelle is preceded in death by her parents, Michael and Sandi Forese. Michelle is survived by her sister Anita Waldron (Norbert) of Walnut Creek, CA; niece, Elizabeth Phelps (Eric) of Ambler, PA; nephew Vincent Waldron (Tobi) of Oakland, CA; grand nieces, Alexis Phelps and Arlo Waldron; grand nephews Aaron Phelps, Austin Phelps, and Luca Waldron.
Donations may be made to the SPCA Nevada, https://spcanevada.org/donate/.
A celebration of life will take place in Reno, NV at a later date.