Dawson, Juanita Oakes

Juanita Oakes Dawson, 84, died on September 4, 2013, at Lewis Gale Montgomery Regional Hospital, surrounded by her loving family. She is survived by her husband of 63 years, Kenneth E. Dawson; daughter, Cheryl Dawson Damron and husband, Douglas Damron; son, Robert E. Dawson and wife, Tiffany Hall Dawson; son, John K. Dawson; and eight grandchildren. She is predeceased by her parents, Wyatt Johnson Oakes Sr. and Cecil Evans Oakes; brothers, Wyatt Johnson “Jimmy” Oakes Jr. , and Aubrey Oakes, and sister, Bernice Oakes Motley. Nita, as she was fondly called, was born in Blairs on September 17, 1928. She graduated from Spring Garden High School in 1946, attended Averett College where she completed her Secretarial Certificate, and graduated from Radford University in 1977 with her Bachelor’s Degree in Business Education. An active member of Belmont Christian Church and the Glory Bound Sunday School class, Nita enjoyed the fellowship of others and supporting Christian missions including the 10 children she and her husband have sponsored with the Baptist Haiti Mission. Traveling to 55 countries and all United States were among her great joys. She graciously hosted many dignitaries associated with her husband’s career. A loving mother and wife, she poured herself into rearing her 3 children, supporting her husband, and being involved with her grandchildren. Special appreciation is expressed to her faithful caregivers, Robyn Estes, Kristin Oroson, and Cornelia Morris and to the staff at Lewis Gale Montgomery Regional Hospital. Visitation will be from 1 to 2:30 p.m. and a celebration service at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, September 8, 2013, at the McCoy Funeral Home, Blacksburg. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Belmont Christian Church Building Fund, Christiansburg. Arrangements by McCoy Funeral Home, Blacksburg.