Jason Edward Dodson was born October 20, 1977 and passed away August 4, 2025. He is survived by his mother Bonita Y. Berry (Jack McKeen); brother Thomas O. “Tod” Dodson (Kim Dodson); nephews Tucker, Eli and Sully Dodson; nieces Stella, Lachlyn and Millie Dodson; Grandfather Thomas C. “Tommy” Berry; and Uncle Ben Berry (Angela Berry). Jay was an amazing uncle, brother, son and friend. He was preceded in death by his grandmother, Maxine Berry. His absence on this earth is felt in the hearts of so many. The joy he brought to the lives of those he loved will live on forever. 

Jay was born in Charlottesville, VA. Throughout this childhood and teen years, Jay lived in Madison County, VA. He attended Madison County High School, where he was an accomplished athlete and student. After graduating from Madison County High School in 1996, Jay moved to Norfolk to attend Old Dominion University to study respiratory therapy. His move to Norfolk was just the beginning of Jay’s incredible adventures. 

Travel was one of the many aspects of life that Jay enjoyed. From Atlanta to Massachusetts to New Orleans, he could make any destination a home. Not only did Jay love to travel, he enjoyed cooking. Most holidays, when Jay wasn’t working in a restaurant, you could find him and is brother Tod playing a cooking game they loved to call “What are you doing? Are you mad at it?” Their differences in cooking technique frequently resulted in lengthy debates on who was right! These debates were often followed up with extensive chess matches. Of course, more debates ensued. Needless to say, the Dodson boys enjoyed healthy competition and endless humor at the other’s expense. 

Golfing was another one of Jay’s many passions. When he wasn’t working or spending time with family, you could find Jay on the golf course. Time on the course was a way Jay liked to relax and reset. 

Jay left this earth too soon. He will always be remembered as a chess-loving adventurer who was loved tremendously. His humorous spirit will forever remain unmatched. He brought so much joy to those around him and his light shone brightly until his very last breath. 

Jason Edward Dodson will be laid to rest in a private ceremony at Madison Memorial Gardens. A private celebration of Jay’s life and adventures is planned for a later date.