William Dodson

William Edgar Dodson, 68, of Beckley, WV went home to be with the Lord on January 12, 2026. Known to many by Ed, William was born in Beckley, WV on August 9, 1957, to his parents Dorcas and Mary Dodson.

As a Christian, William lived his life in service of the Lord, his family, and friends. All that knew him knew how kind, thoughtful, and caring he was, writing poetry for those close to him and doing all he could to lift everyone’s spirits. He deeply loved his nieces and nephews, caring for them as his own, and was known for his willingness to lend a helping hand to anyone who needed it. Music was important to him; he sang often, and beautifully, not just in church but as he did anything. Whether it was gospels or classic country music, he had his own soundtrack to his life.

When he wasn’t attending church or spending time with his family, he attended car shows and had a deep appreciation for the work and care it took to maintain classic cars.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Dorcas and Mary Dodson, siblings Doris Dodson and Sharon Holdren, nephew Allen Dodson, and wife Deana Dodson.

Those left to cherish his memory are his siblings, Marie Thornquest, Dorcas “Bay” Dodson III and wife Theresa, James “Randy” Dodson, Gary Dodson and his wife Jill, Carla Dodson, Ricky Dodson and his wife Norma, Phyllis Dodson and her husband Timmy. Along with many nieces and nephews, and a special niece, Kim Merkle, who helped Ed with all his care and needs.

A funeral service for William will be held at Blue Ridge Funeral Home in Beckley, WV at 2:00pm on Saturday January 17, 2026, with Minister Randy Smithson officiating. Friends are invited to join the family for a visitation starting at 12:00pm.