Obituary - Charles Allen Dawson

Charles Allen Dawson, age 95, of Greeneville, Tennessee, passed away peacefully at his home on February 7, 2025. He was born on October 22, 1929, to Charles and Ada Dawson of Anderson County, Kentucky.

Charles-also known as Allen to his family-spent his childhood and youth helping on the family farm, an experience that instilled in him a strong work ethic lasting throughout his life. During high school, he played basketball for Salvisa High School, where he developed a love for the game and became an avid fan of University of Kentucky basketball. After completing his first two years of college, Charles enlisted in the Air Force during the Korean War. A proud veteran, he was stationed in Germany and traveled across Europe over the course of three years. Upon his return to the United States, he resumed his studies, completed his degree in accounting, and met the love of his life, Barbara.

Charles and Barbara were married in Barbourville, Kentucky, on June 14, 1957. After several relocations due to job changes, Charles accepted an offer from Magnavox in Greeneville, Tennessee, in 1959. He spent decades in the accounting department at Magnavox (acquired by Philips Consumer Electronics in 1974), where his diligence and expertise earned him great respect, eventually rising to the position of Director of General Accounting.

A devoted Christian, Charles was an active member of First Baptist Church throughout his time in Greeneville. He served on numerous committees, taught Sunday School, and was treasurer for many years. He also served on the building committee and was a deacon.

Charles was known for his unwavering positivity, always wearing a smile and carrying an attitude of gratitude. He found joy in the little things-especially his love for University of Kentucky basketball, Texas A&M football, and golf-which he enjoyed throughout his life.

Charles was cherished by his family and friends. He is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara Dawson; his sister, Wilna Thompson; his brother-in-law, Ralph Morris; his sister-in-law, Judy Martel and her husband, George; his son, Mike Dawson and his wife, Debbie; and his daughter, Dianna Holditch. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Christian and his wife, Lindsey; Trey; Zach; Kent; and Seana and her husband, Josh; as well as his great-grandchildren: Layla, Braylon, Kierra, Josiah, Jude, Seraiah, Grayson, Emilyn, and Sophia.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Ada Dawson; a sister, Ann Morris; and a son-in-law, Murry Holditch.

Visitation is on Sunday, February 9, 2025, at Jeffers Funeral Home in Afton, Tennessee, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. On Monday, February 10, 2025, visitation will be at First Baptist Church in Greeneville, Tennessee, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. The memorial service to celebrate Charles's life will follow visitation at 2:00 p.m. Dr. David Green and Joey Tillery will officiate the service. Internment will follow at Graceland Memorial Gardens in Afton, Tennessee.

Pallbearers: Rick Benton, Phil Gentry, Charlie Paxton, Kent Fox, Josh Dawson, and Rex Gibson

Honorary Pallbearers: Larry Short, Fred Sorrells, Mike Roberts, Charlie Cobble, John and Shirley Brown, Reverend William and Shirley Hall, and Dick Fawbush

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Charles's caregiver, Judy Weddle.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made to the charity of your choice or to First Baptist Church.