Arthur E. Dawley

Arthur E. Dawley August 20, 1921 - May 9, 2012 Preston - Arthur E. Dawley,90, husband of Stella Leighton (Perry) Dawley of Prodell Rd Preston, passed away Wednesday night at his home with his wife and loving family at his side. Art was born in Norwich, August 20, 1921, son of the late Clifton and Margery (Willis) Dawley and was a life long Preston resident. He graduated from N.F.A. class of 1939 and received his bachelor degree in Agriculture from Michigan State University in 1943. He operated the Dawley Potato Farm with his Dad for many years, and was later employed by Agway as a Store Manager in the Plainfield, Westerly, and Norwich Stores before his retirement. The Church was a very important part of Art's life, having given much of his time to the many aspects of church life, including Deacon, Choir member, Trustee, Moderator, "On Call" maintenance man, and weekly Greeter to everyone especially the Sunday School Children. He was a member of the Preston Community Chorus, and a member of the Barbershoppers for many years. He was united in marriage first to Agnes Stone, who died in February 1979. On June 14, 1980, he married Stella (Leighton) Perry, in Norwich, CT who survives In addition to his wife surviving are four sons: Robert Dawley of Uncasville, Kenneth Dawley of Chicopee, MA., William Dawley of Florida, and Edward Perry of Griswold; two daughters: Joyce Weber of Preston and Debra Roberts of Portland OR. A brother, Morgan Dawley of Florida.,and a sister Jean Spruance of Drescher, PA; ten grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Visitation Sunday 6-8 P.M. at the Labenski Funeral Home 107 Boswell Ave. Norwich. Funeral Service on Monday at 11 a.m. at Preston City Congregational Church, 321 Rte. 164 Preston, CT 06365, followed by burial in Preston City Cemetery. In Lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Church.