Gary Varnell Dobson, 72, of Hot Springs, AR, peacefully transitioned on Thursday, January 18, 2024, at National Park Medical Center. He was born in Hot Springs on July 22, 1951, to Quilla B. and Flora Mae (Singleton) Dobson.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, his daughter Jeanna Renae Dobson, his bonus son Tavarous Woodfork, and his siblings: Waheeda Shaheed (Carrie), Jeri Jean Dobson, Valada Jackson, Arnold B. Dobson, Lorenza V. Dobson, Ellinger L. Dobson.

Gary devoted his life to Christ at an early age at Union Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Pastor J.N. Harrison. Gary graduated from Hot Springs High. Following graduation, he served in the United States Navy. Gary married Jacqueline M. (Smith) Dobson in 1971, and they had three children together. Notably, Gary became the first Black mail carrier in Hot Springs.

In search of a fresh start, he moved to Rockford, Illinois, where he met Irene Woodfork. They had a bonus child and two daughters. After returning to Arkansas, Gary became a dedicated member of Roanoke Baptist Church in Hot Springs, where he contributed to the male choir.

Gary is survived by his twin daughters whom he was so proud of, Angela D. Dobson, and Michelle P. Dobson, and their mother Jacqueline M. Dobson. His daughters, Lateasha Woodfork and Latoya Woodfork, and their mother Irene Woodfork. His sister: Helen Taylor. Brother: Darcy Dobson and his sixteen grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren. A host of cousins, nieces, nephews his many acquaintances He shared a special friendship and love with Elmer Beard (former 10th-grade English Teacher) and Sonya Beard.

The memorial service will be Friday, February 2, 2024, at 2:00 pm at Carrigan Memorial Funeral Service 336 E. Grand Ave. Hot Springs, AR. 71901.

You may sign the guest registry at http://www.carriganmemorial.com
Arrangements are entrusted to Carrigan Memorial Funeral Services