Philys Anita Dawson

Philys Anita "Cooky"Dawson, a devoted mother, grandmother, great grandmother and friend, passed away peacefully in her home on January 24, 2026, at the age of 71.

She was born on July 30, 1954 , in Anadarko, OK to Phil and Mary Cook. After losing her mother at the age of 6, she spent most of her time with her father, her paternal

grandmother, Grandma Cook, maternal grandparents, Popeye and Granny Taylor, as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews and close friends. She adored her two older brothers, Pat and Bill Anderson, and later gained a stepmother, Mary Lou and three step brothers, Dan, Tony and Mark Rider.

She graduated from Anadarko High School in 1972. Following graduation, she moved to Stillwater to attend Oklahoma State University before transferring and graduating from the University of Oklahoma. She began working as a social worker at the Department of Human Services, where she worked for 30 years.

In 1985, she gave birth to her son, her most treasured accomplishment.

Philys cherished her family and friendships, developing them at each stage of her life, with most lasting to the very end. Her relationships encompassed all aspects of life, and each were special to her. From phone call chats, vacationing around the world or even just an outing for margaritas, Philys was up for it all.

Philys' choice of occupations defined who she was. She had a passion for helping people. She had an empathetic awareness to meet their needs and a desire to help others without expecting anything in return. She chose to "work" serving others. It was not unusual to have a random stranger at the table for a holiday meal because she couldn't bear to think of them being alone. Even after retirement, when most people spend time relaxing, Philys started a new career at Norman Regional Hospital as a Case Manager. There she worked for over ten years in a stressful, fast paced job where she went above and beyond for every patient she served.

As much as she loved people, she had an overwhelming heart for animals. Cat food and dog bones were a common fixture in her car for strays she may encounter. She purchased outdoor shelters for neighborhood strays and wasn't shy about passing them out to anyone who mentioned they saw a stray in their neighborhood. If she overheard that an animal was cold, hungry or in need of a home, she would diligently work to solve the problem.

Philys is survived by her son, Evan Dawson and wife Nicole, step daughters Deborah Dawson, Jennifer Farley and husband Je^, grandchildren John Dean and wife Anna, Josh Farley and wife Cassidy, Mikayla Dyer and husband Jake, Eryn Sta^ord, Kirstin Birdsall, Noah Thomas, Amelia Thomas and Brooklyn Dawson, great grandchildren, Jack and Miles Dean and Ezra Thomas and loving partner Dafna Blut Jerdon.

Through her cancer journey she continued to live bravely, always with joy and a smile, never identifying as a sick person. She was known for trademark spunk to the very end yet also known for being sweet, tenderhearted and full of gratitude. Even in her last days, she never failed to softly say a "thank you" or an "I'm sorry" to health care workers or family when she felt it was needed. We will miss her Dirty Santa parties, her signature desserts and her perfectly wrapped Christmas gifts.

We find comfort knowing that her legacy lives on through the lessons she taught us, the love she shared and the memories that will last forever. She will forever be a bright light to her family and friends.

At Philys'request, donations to EarthMother Rescue and Outreach are appreciated in lieu

of flowers.