Gilbert Dawson

Gilbert Dawson PORTSMOUTH - Gilbert Dawson departed this life Dec. 5, 2008, in a local hospital. He was born to the late Haywood and Elmere Dawson in Amite, La. He received his education in the public schools of Amite and Milwaukee. Gilbert retired from the U.S. Navy and also from the Naval Operating Base (Public Works) where he was a crane operator. He was a merchant seaman with the U.S. Coast Guard. Gilbert was a member of St. James AME Church in the Berkley section of Norfolk where he served in Sunday school, Usher Board, Trustee Emeritus, Senior Choir, Sunday School Bus Driver and member of the Lay Organization. He was also the Past Worshipful Master of Pride of Portsmouth No. 109, A.A.S.R.F.M. He was honored by the Sons of Allen as Man of the Year in 2007. He was predeceased by a son, Gilbert Dawson Jr. Special thanks and appreciation is extended to the staff at Ross House and RAI Dialysis Unit (Airline Blvd.) and all his caregivers for all the care, patience and respect afforded our loved one. He leaves to cherish his memory his wife, Madeline B. Dawson; one daughter, Toni Woods (Alonzo) of Charlotte, N.C.; one sister, Elmere Lyons (Terry) of Milwaukee; two grandchildren, Aja and Max Dawson, both of Richmond; a daughter-in-law, Felecia Dawson of Richmond; and a host of other relatives and friends. A funeral will be held 11 a.m. Thursday in St. James AME Church, Berkley. The Rev. Norman Vick will officiate. Interment will be in Roosevelt Memorial Park, Chesapeake. Family and friends will assemble at the home one hour prior to service for procession to the church. Metropolitan Funeral Service, Berkley Ave. Chapel, is in charge. Condolences may be offered at www.metropolitanfuneralservice.com.