Catherine Gwyn Dawson

Catherine Gwyn Dawson, 62, of Lillington, North Carolina, passed away on August 19th, 2024. Born on August 10th, 1962 at Fort Benning, Georgia. Catherine was the second oldest of five siblings, and devoted most of her life in service of others. 

She began her career as an Elementary School Teaching Aide, while also driving a school bus for Harnett County Schools. While she loved interaction with her school family, she also wanted to serve her community on a much greater level. She transitioned into the Communications Department at Harnett County Sheriff’s Office as an E911 Dispatcher, reaching supervisory/team lead before her retirement.  

In retirement, her passion was spending time with friends, hosting monthly Bunco, time at the beach, and working in her yard, and garden. Her front porch and lawn were always a reflective of her love for plants and gardening. 

Catherine’s presence was marked by her bubbly personality, making a lasting impressions on everyone who came in contact with her. Her love for life was contagious. 

Catherine is survived by her husband, Paul Dawson; her parents, Clyde F. and Connie L. Strickland, and only child, Shelby L. Perry. Her siblings Candice Mae Mohler (Gary), Cherie Strickland Wallace (Mark), and Craig Woodson Strickland (Paula), and several nieces and nephews including Candice Marie Seals, Christy L. Schafer, Chad C. Schafer, Chrystal S. Davis, Meleighe L. Sloss (Ryan), Heather R. Malone, and Richard F. Strickland. She was preceded in death by her oldest sister, Cynthia A. Howerton, and nephew, Michael T. Green. 

 A Celebration of Life will be held at O’Quinn-Peebles-Phillips Funeral Home & Crematory, 2pm - 4pm Saturday, August 24, 2024, honoring Catherine’s memory and legacy. In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to a local / community charity of your choice.

Catherine’s love of family, lasting contributions, and impacts in service to her community will be sorely missed.

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