Richard Dawson

Richard Dawson, 79, affectionately known as “Pops” and “Poppa,” was born on December 31, 1939 in Mt. Vernon, New York to the late Padrhon Dawson, Sr. and Rosalee King. Richard was birthed into love and embraced by his two brothers, Padrhon Dawson, Jr. and James Dawson and his two sisters Gurde George and Vivian King. He was formally educated in the Mount Vernon School District. In his early adult years, Richard moved to New Haven, Connecticut where he became a lifelong resident. He was a dedicated employee at the East Haven Landscaping Company and retired in 2008. Richard immensely enjoyed the nature earth provides, such as stones, grass, soil, plants, and flowers. He was extremely knowledgeable about landscaping and could tell you about the various characteristics of stones, flowers, shrubs, or trees. Richard was a member of Powerhouse Temple Ministries, New Haven, Connecticut, under the pastoral leadership of Apostle Lonnell I. Lawson, Sr. He was a former member of the Trustee Board, a member of the Men’s Ministry, and he loved to sing as a soloist at any given opportunity. Richard was always known for his sense of humor, he had a way with words, a way to make you laugh and smile even in the most difficult situations. There was never a dull moment when you were in his presence. He would share hard life lessons or some insightful words to keep everyone on their toes. He had a way of making everyone feel loved in a very special way. Richard enjoyed music and singing soul and gospel songs from the fifties and sixties era. He sang in two gospel groups where he found the greatest joy. However, his passion was fishing. He loved to fish! He loved sitting by the water, it was a place where he found tranquility. He also enjoyed deer hunting and the sport of boxing. But none of that meant more to him than his family. He did not only love his family, but he showed how to love family unconditionally. Richard enjoyed spending time with his family and absolutely adored his grandchildren and often spoke fondly of them. Richard, a beloved husband, a father, a grandfather, a great grandfather, a brother, uncle, and most importantly a friend. The greatest friend he found was in the Lord, and on March 17, 2019, the Lord saw fit to embrace Richard with His unconditional love, grace, and mercy and transitioned Richard from labor to reward in Heaven. Richard was predeceased by his vigilant father Padrhon Dawson, Sr., vivacious mother Rosalee King, his brother Padrhon Dawson and sisters Gurde George and Vivian King. Richard leaves to cherish and celebrate his memory the love of his life for 39 years, Barbara Dawson; his beloved children Richard McClendon., (CT), Terrance King (NY), Kareem Bowmen (CT), Jerry Smith (CT),Tarishia and Robert Martin (CT), Helena Smith (CT), Melba and Charles Leonard (CT), Celestine Smith (CT), brother and sister-in-law James and Helen Dawson (CT); Grandchildren Truphena Martin, Robert Martin, Sonia Martin, Delena Swaby, Mahogany Leonard, Char-Lee Leonard, Charles Leonard, Richard Leonard, Terrance King Jr., Shana King, Nathaniel King, Zyaire King, Rutoyn Williams, Amitiza Lee, Brittany Mason, Jerry Smith, Jervon Smith, Justice Smith; sisters-in-law Gloria Willett, Jean (Doug) Cannon, and Doreen (Quints) Kittle-Davis along with a host of relatives and friends. Richard will be deeply and wholeheartedly missed but, continuously loved by a host of great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and endless friends.

Richard Dawson

December 31, 1939 - March 17, 2019