Celia Joanne Dawson

Celia (CeCe) J. Dawson, age 73, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on August 15, 2025, after a long battle with cancer. She is survived by her beloved husband of 50 years, Stephen, and her 3 children, Stephen Jr. (Maria), Gina Patchell, and Joseph. She is also survived by 8 grandchildren, Evy and Charlie Patchell and Maximilian, Maris, Luke, David, Regina and Consilia Dawson. She is also survived by her brother, Anthony Bellisario, and was preceded in death by her sister, Mary Whitmore.

After graduation from Pontiac Catholic High School (now Notre Dame Preparatory High School), she became a registered radiological technician. Sometime later and after several years at Oakland University, she had a successful career as a real estate agent in Birmingham, first with Weir Manuel Snyder & Ranke, then Hannett Wilson & Whitehouse and finally, Max Broock. Along the way she made many friends who remain friends today.

Celia was a devoted Catholic who spent time in Russia and Poland with Fr. John Hardon and St. Teresa's nuns after the breakup of the Soviet Union. Her devotion continued until her passing. She counted among her many friends and counselors priests and Cardinal Burke.

Taught by her mother, Celia was an avid and creative seamstress, who on her 4 sewing machines and 2 sergers made many wonderful clothes, including communion dresses and even her daughter-in-law's wedding dress. She also was a superb cook, whose homemade Italian pasta sauce, meatballs, lasagna, eggplant parmesan, etc., were the highlight of many wonderful family dinners.

Celia was a passionate woman, whose love for family and friends compelled much love in return. She will never be replaced.

Family will receive friends Friday, August 22 from 3-7PM with a 7PM Rosary at A.J. Desmond & Sons (Vasu, Rodgers & Connell Chapel), 32515 Woodward Ave. (btwn 13-14 Mile), Royal Oak, (248) 549-0500. Funeral Mass Saturday, August 23 at 10AM at St. Hugo of the Hills – Stone Chapel, 2215 Opdyke Rd., Bloomfield Hills. Visitation at church begins at 9:30AM. Interment to follow at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Southfield.

In lieu of flowers, please consider contributions in her name to St. Paul Street Evangelization, Tunnels to Towers, or the charity of your choosing.