‘A steadfast servant.’ Kentucky community mourns chief circuit judge
A Kentucky community is mourning the loss of a circuit judge who died over the weekend.
Chief Circuit Judge Jeff Dotson died Saturday, according to his obituary. He presided over the 50th Judicial Circuit which includes Boyle and Mercer counties.
He was 59.
In the aftermath of his death, Chief Justice Laurance VanMeter said Dotson was a respected and dedicated member of the judiciary, having served as a judge for more than twenty years.
“His passing is a shocking loss to his family, his community, and the Kentucky Court of Justice. His family is in our prayers,” VanMeter said in a statement.
In several posts on Facebook, people who worked with the judge said Dotson’s wisdom and leadership left an indelible mark on Boyle County.
Court Appointed Special Advocates of the Bluegrass also posted about Dotson’s death on social media, noting the sadness of the loss, and requesting prayers for his family.
“He was a valuable piece of the justice system, a steadfast servant of the communities he served, and a dear friend and mentor to many,” the post read.
Dotson served as the district judge from 2003 to 2022 when he was then appointed to the circuit judge position by Gov. Andy Beshear.
He was a member of the Harrodsburg Christian Church, a graduate of East Tennessee State University and earned his law degree from the University of Louisville Brandeis School of Law, according to his obituary.
He is survived by his wife, Christine, his son, Jack, and his parents, Roger and Barbara Dotson of Salvisa.
An intimate gathering will be held Oct. 7, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Greystone House, Beaumont Inn, 618 Beaumont Inn Dr. in Harrodsburg.
