Dawson, Kenneth Edward

Kenneth Edward Dawson, 88, died on September 10, 2015 at 5:33 am, at Lewis Gale Hospital-Montgomery. He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 63 years, Juanita O. Dawson, his parents, William J. and Jeddie G. Dawson, and his brother, William Jr. and sister, Barbara D. Flanary.

Kenneth had a deep love for his family and friends, and is survived by daughter, Cheryl Dawson Damron and husband Douglas Damron; son, Robert E. Dawson and wife, Tiffany Hall Dawson; son, John K. Dawson; and eight grandchildren.

Born in Newark, Ohio on May 3, 1927, Ken grew up in Pittsylvania County, Va. He graduated from Spring Garden High School, Chatham, Va. in 1945. After serving in the Army from 1946-1948, he enrolled in V.P.I., graduating in 1952. He taught at Wytheville High School and Jefferson Senior High School in Roanoke, and returned to Va. Tech in 1956 as Assistant Professor. Ken received a Master of Education degree from the University of Virginia and a PhD from the University of Maryland. Having traveled to 60 countries and all of the United States, Dr. Dawson helped develop liaison relationships between Virginia Tech and many nations including China, Japan, Brazil, Haiti, Yugoslavia, Portugal and Egypt.

Kenneth Dawson shared his faith in Jesus Christ through his kindness and generosity, by teaching Sunday School for over 50 years, and serving as an active deacon. At death, he was a member of Belmont Christian Church. Ken was very active in civic organizations. He was longtime chaplain of the local A.A.R.P. and served as President of several Rotary Clubs.

Special appreciation is expressed to his caregivers Robyn Estes, Emma Lumberton, and Rebecca Bishop.

To those left behind, Ken Dawson says, “Love one another deeply, serve the Lord with gladness, and thank Him for every blessing. Life is good!”

Visitation will be from 12:30-2:00 pm with a celebration service following at 2:00 pm on Sunday, September 13, 2015, at the McCoy Funeral Home, Blacksburg.