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Leonard Dawson Obituary
Dr. Leonard E. Dawson, age 91, of Midlothian, VA, 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 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.
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Joseph Jenkins Jr. Funeral Home2011 Grayland Avenue, Richmond, VA 23220
Memories and Condolences
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7 Entries
Julius Scipio
November 12, 2025
Dr. Leonard Dawson gave me an opportunity to serve in a number of administrative roles when he was President of Voorhees College (now University). In addition to learning how to lead by his example, the experiences I had served as a foundation for a career in higher education that has spanned over thirty-five years. I am forever grateful to him and will never forget the lessons he taught me, the examples he set for me to follow, and the giant of a man and leader that he was. To the Dawson Family, may God grant you His peace and comfort at this difficult time. I am keeping all of you in my thoughts and prayers.
From the Staff of Joseph Jenkins, Jr. Funeral Home
November 12, 2025
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
Tonya Sims-Hill
November 11, 2025
Dear Dawson Family:
Sincere condolences to all.
It was a pleasure to see Dr Leonard Dawson this summer at the Dawson Family Reunion in Atlanta.
His light shines on.
Ervin Smith
November 6, 2025
Truly a gift to fellow humanity. Leonard gave so much with dignity and resolve.
We are all better because he lived among us. I will miss our conversations.
Belinda A. Scott
November 5, 2025
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always. Rest In Peace
Rita Willis
November 4, 2025
Dr. Michael Dawson,
What a giant of a man your father was. We vividly recall him participating in our HBCU Forum and Luncheon. We learned so much from him.
Moreover, Dr. Dawson touched and changed lives.
He accomplished what he was sent here to do.
Rest, Dr. Dawson. "We´ll see you in the morning."
Rita H. Willis (for)
Social Action
Adrienne Thomas-Frazier
November 4, 2025
Dr. Leonard Dawson was a life long friend of my late father, Bert Thomas. I have very fond memories of Leonard, Daddy, and Uncle Marion Barnes cutting up and living life. They all received advanced degrees together and were very supportive of one another. He was a giant of a man who will be missed.
Condolences to the family and all who loved him.
_Adrienne Thomas-Frazier and Audrey M. Thomas
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