Vernon Davis Dawson of Occoquan, VA, passed away Wednesday, February 27, 2019. Affectionately known as “Pop, Poppie and Grandad” to his grandchildren and great grandchildren, Vernon was born January 12, 1929, in Occoquan, VA, to the late Ethel Lynn Wigglesworth Dawson and Wallace Lindsay Dawson. He is preceded in death by his wife Hazel Wilkins Dawson of 65 years, their infant son and his brothers Hugh Lindsay and John Wallace Dawson.
Vernon is survived by four children, Dave Dawson (Janet), Paula Dawson-Downs (Ronald), Bobby Dawson (Kimberly) and Matthew Dawson, eleven grandchildren Ryan Dawson (Moon), Scott Dawson (Maggie), Jeffrey Dawson (Rachel), Tory Dawson, Caroline Downs, Ashton Evans (Eric), Adam Dawson (Nicole), Tyler Dawson (Samantha), Kyle Dawson (Morgan), Charlotte Dawson and Lindsay Dawson; great-grandchildren Ryu, Leo , Kirra, Sabra, Scarlet, Bailey, Mason, Gracelyn, Tillman and Theodore. Other surviving family includes Dara Dawson.
Vernon grew up in the Occoquan/Woodbridge area and attended Occoquan School. He continued his education at Virginia Episcopal School in Lynchburg, meeting his future wife, Hazel Wilkins. Attending Hampden Sydney College, they married on June 4, 1951 shortly before Vern’s deployment to Germany with the United States Army. Returning to Woodbridge, VA, Vern worked for Sears before becoming an entrepreneur working alongside his father and brother John. A move to Buxton, NC, on Hatteras Island in 1971 found Vern purchasing and running Cape Hatteras Motel with Hazel. He served on the Prince William County Board of Supervisors, from 1972-76; served on the Potomac Hospital Board 1972-75; served on the advisory board of Virginia National Bank in the mid-seventies and early 80’s; and was an active member in the Woodbridge Lion’s Club for years. In the mid 80’s, Hazel and Vern developed the Dawson Landing Subdivision, numerous other properties throughout Woodbridge, and many buildings in Historic Occoquan.
As years went by and the family continued to grow, Vern spent much of his time “rambling the roads” and taking care of rental properties and “sidewalk supervising” his children and grandchildren in their endeavors to take over many projects developed by Vern. He loved spoiling all his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren and especially his dogs Sassy and Maggie. More recently, Vern became an oyster farmer, having found the perfect spot to spend time with family and friends at the Rivah.
Friends and family are invited to a celebration of life on March 8, 2019 at Pohick Episcopal Church. Visitation with family and friends will begin at 10am in the Common Room in the Parish House with a walk at 11am for a graveside service and ashes interment.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in honor and memory to Virginia Episcopal School, 400 V.E.S. Road, Lynchburg, VA 24503 or a charity of your choice.
