Jackson Ray Dolin

Jackson Ray Dolin III Jack was born September 29, 1941 in Levi, West Virginia. He passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by his wife and 2 daughters, on May 20, 2021. He battled COPD for many years. He won the battle and is healed by the hand of the Lord. We are rejoicing that he is now breathing, laughing and seeing Jesus. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Nina Jane McHone Dolin, his daughters: Jodi Dolin Higgins (son-in-law, Clif) and Tami Dolin Rase (son-in-law, Jeff). 5 grandchildren: Mandy Higgins (Justin Buck), Paul Rase (Haley), Jack Rase (Alyssa), Katie Miner (Kevin) and Abby Rase. 2 Great Grandchildren: Hudson Miner and Elijah Miner. Jack joined the US Navy and proudly served his country. He then joined the West Virginia State Police, serving as a State Trooper. He worked on notable cases such as the tragic Marshall University plane crash and the Point Pleasant bridge collapse. He also served as a bodyguard for the Governor of WV. He then went on to work for Norfolk Southern Railway, serving as the Special Agent in Charge for 27 years. He left a legacy of railroaders in his family. He married the love of his life, Nina in 1963. They spent 57 years together. He loved her from the moment he saw her and asked her to go get a coke and see “Oklahoma”, until his last breath. His eyes would light up when she walked in the room – even on his last day! She was his everything, his partner in life. She was on the back of the motorcycle wrapping her arms around him and the one holding his hands at all times. They were 2 of a kind. They settled in Knoxville after moving several times along his career path. He and Nina were so magnetic that their daughters moved to be near them. The Dolin family tree has grown many new branches. He was so blessed to have family that wanted to be close together. On most days, Jack could be found playing 18 hole (or more) and a lively hand of cards at Beaver Brook Country Club, where he was a member and served as President for a time. Jack lived to play golf and he loved Nina. He was in bliss when he combined the two and she started playing with him. They genuinely enjoyed those retirement years. They welcomed their yorkie, Lexie when dad had to stop playing golf. He loved her – and she misses him already. Jack would say about Lexie. “I’m not saying this because she is my dog – but she is smart”. (Sidenote – he was right – she sure trained him!) She taught him to cut up her treats, she allowed him space in her chair, she told him when he needed to go sit with her on the deck and when to come back in – even when he should go to bed at night. He loved every minute of it! He carried her picture in his wallet. Golf was second only to his family where he was known for his anecdotal sayings and jokes, “Remember, it ain’t nothing for a Papa like me to whip a grandchild like you”. Jack’s calm demeanor and level head always kept the peace. His family knew he would offer a listening ear and his best advice. He attended all the grandkids’ sporting events (baseball, soccer, tennis, volleyball, basketball, football, cheerleading, and so much more), band concerts, plays musicals, recitals and debates. From Mother’s Day out graduation to High School and College University graduations – he was one proud Papa! He enjoyed back yard family celebrations and get togethers. A good family game night consisting of Pictionary, card games and board games were some of his favorite times. He was a lifelong Mountaineer Fan and will continue cheering them on from Heaven. How ‘bout them ‘eers?? In lieu of flowers, please make donations to UT Hospice, 1924 Alcoa Highway, Knoxville, Tennessee 37920. The family will receive friends on Tuesday, May 25, 2021 from 4:00 until 6:00 PM at Mynatt Funeral Home, Halls Chapel with a Memorial Service following at 6:00 PM with Rev. Larry Woods, officiating. Everyone is asked to meet on Wednesday, May 26, 2021 at 12:15 PM in the East Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery, Gov. John Sevier Highway for at 12:30 PM Committal Service. Memories and condolences for the family may be sent to www.mynattfh.com Arrangements under the direction of Mynatt Funeral Home, Knoxville, TN.