Gary Dawson, known to his loved ones as Tom, passed away on October 29, 2023, at the age of 69 in Sarasota, Florida. Born on October 3, 1954, in Burlington, NC, Tom lived a life filled with love, laughter, and an unwavering dedication to his family and friends.

If you had the pleasure and honor of knowing Tom Dawson, you knew a larger-than-life force who left this world an even better place than when he entered. He was a witty, hard-working, and intelligent father who gave his family and friends all of himself. Tom had a way of making everyone feel instantly comfortable, and he had a special talent for seeing the best in others. Whether it was his corny jokes that made him grin ear to ear, his warm and comforting hugs, or his ability to make you feel loved and special, Tom had a profound impact on the lives of those around him.

Tom's journey took him from his roots in Burlington, North Carolina, where he played sports ran the YMCA and a Disco, to finding the love of his life, Tana. Together, they built a life supported by love, laughter, kindness, patience, and dedication in Pittsburgh, PA. Tom worked for Piedmont Air/U.S. Air/American Air, where he earned a well-deserved profession that eventually brought him to Pittsburgh. Despite not having any family roots in Western, PA, Tom and Tana made it their home and embraced the community with open arms.

Tom's love for his family was unparalleled. His three children, Tyler, Nikki, and Preston, were his prized possessions, and his character was deeply rooted within each of them. He cherished his role as a father and a friend, making everyone feel equally loved and valued. Tom's capacity for love extended beyond his immediate family, as he welcomed his children's friends into his heart as if they were his own. The stories he shared about his family and their friends were endless, and the impact he had on their lives will be cherished forever.

Tom's legacy lives on through his grandsons, Cassius Thomas, who carries his name forward and Julius Joseph. These two boys were the true apple of his eye! Life's fragility reminds us to reflect on who we are and the importance of cherishing our loved ones. Tom would want nothing less than for us to hold our loved ones closer, remind them of our love, and live each day as the best version of ourselves.

A Celebration of Life will be held in honor of Tom Dawson at two locations. The first will take place on Saturday, November 18, from 1-4pm at Monaca Turners, located at 1700 Old Brodhead Road, Monaca, PA 15061. The second celebration will be held on Saturday, November 25, from 3-6pm at Harvest Baptist Church, located at 3741 S. Church Street, Burlington, NC 27215.

In the journey of life, Tom Dawson touched the hearts of all who knew him. His memory will be cherished by his dear wife, Tana, his loving children, Tyler, Nikki (wife Desiree) and Preston, and his adored grandsons, Cassius and Julius. May Tom rest in peace, knowing that his love and impact will endure for generations to come.

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