Dr. Leonard E Dawson

Dr. Leonard E. Dawson, age 91, of Midlothian, Virginia, departed this life on October 29, 2025. He was a lifelong educator and retired president of Voorhees College (now Voorhees University). He was a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Sigma Pi Phi, Club 533, Phi Delta Kappa, several educational and civic organizations, and Third Street Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church. He was preceded in death by his wife, Dr. Laura R. Dawson; one daughter, Lavinia Dawson; and one son, Randall Dawson. He is survived by one daughter, Stephanie Dawson Powell (Art); one son, Michael Dawson,M.D.; one granddaughter, Alexis Dawson-Armstrong (Earl); one grandson, Christopher Jason Jarrette; two great grandchildren, Leia and Taylor Dawson-Armstrong; one sister, Josephine Taylor; one brother, Ambassador Horace Dawson Jr.; one sister-in-law, Hallique Dawson; a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins; and other relatives and dear friends. 

Remains rest at Joseph Jenkins Jr. Funeral Home, 2011 Grayland Avenue, Richmond, VA, where the family will receive friends on Thursday, November 13, 2025, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Funeral services will be held Friday, November 14 at 11 a.m. at Third Street Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church, 614 N. Third Street, Richmond, VA, with Rev. Reuben J. Boyd (pastor) officiating. Viewing will take place at the church between 10:00 and 10:45 a.m. immediately prior to funeral time. Interment will take place Saturday, November 15 at 12:30 p.m. at Washington National Cemetery, 4101 Suitland Road, Suitland, MD. Family and friends will assemble at the burial site. 

In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made in Leonard Dawson’s name to the United Negro College Fund (UNCF), to help provide college scholarships to underserved students. Donations are accepted online at https://www.uncf.org (Click on the “Donate to UNCF” tab on the homepage; select “Yes, this is an honor or memorial gift.”).