Donald Alan Dawes

Donald Alan Dawes, of West Roxbury, passed away peacefully on August 3, 2025, at the age of 74, surrounded by his loving family after a brief illness.

Born in Boston on September 9, 1950, Donald was the son of Alanson Otis Dawes Jr. and Abigail May (Savage) Dawes. He was a proud graduate of Boston Latin School, and he went on to earn a BA in Religion from Atlantic Union College and a Master of Divinity from Andrews University in 1977.

Donald's life was one of deep faith, and sincere devotion to family, friends, and community. He was an ordained minister with a love for preaching, singing, and leading Bible studies, especially within the church he ultimately called home: Forest Hills Covenant Church in Jamaica Plain. His spiritual guidance, sense of humor, and deep scriptural knowledge, including Hebrew, made him a beloved teacher and listener.

For over 30 years, Donald worked as a braille proofreader at the National Braille Press, retiring in 2014. He had a sharp eye for detail and a sharper wit to match.

Donald was a man of habit in the best way: devoted, consistent, and deeply kind. He was affectionately known as the Real Deal's most loyal customer, visiting the West Roxbury sandwich shop daily.

He loved music, especially singing hymns at church, and he never passed up a chance to read, especially children's books to young ones at church, or just about anything he could get his hands on. In his final days, he still asked for books to hold and read.

He leaves behind his three loving daughters: Abbie J. Dawes, Elizabeth A. Flagg (Allen), and Rebekah D. Spencer. He was the proud grandfather of Adam Engroff, Sarah Papadopoulos, Hadassah Flagg, and Lydia Flagg. He is also survived by his twin sister, Donna J. Dawes, and his brother John A. Dawes (Julie). He was predeceased by his parents and his brother George A. Dawes, with whom he tirelessly performed the Abbott and Costello skit "Who's on First" to the delight of family and friends.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, September 6, 2025 at 3pm at Forest Hills Covenant Church, 455 Arborway, Jamaica Plain, MA 02130, with refreshments to follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Donald's memory to any of the following organizations that reflect his values and life's work: Perkins School for the Blind, American Heart Association, American Lung Association, or other foundations supporting the visually impaired.

Donald's memory will live on in the family he cherished, the church he served, and the quiet legacy of kindness, wisdom, and integrity he leaves behind.