Lou Ann Dawson

Lou Ann Dawson, born October 9, 1939, in Orick, Missouri, was a woman of uncommon kindness and patience. My mother, Lou Ann, was the embodiment of Emily Dickinson's words, "Hope is the thing with feathers that perches in the soul - and sings the tunes without the words - and never stops at all." She always had an unwavering faith in us, her sons, her family, and the inherent goodness of of people. Her love and dedication knew no bounds, her support was steadfast, and her radiant smile could brighten any room.

Lou Ann moved many times as a child finally settling down in Yakima, Washington, where she met Cecil Dawson and were married and built a life filled with love, laughter, and purpose that endured for over 50 years. She dedicated more than 2 decades of her life to Providence Health Systems, where she worked tirelessly in hospital billing. Her dedication was not confined to her professional life; she was the loving backbone of our family. Retiring in 1999, she was able to devote even more of her time to her beloved family, especially her three grandkids and three great grandkids which provided her great joy and became a focal point of her world. Her supportive nature meant she was always there, offering a listening ear, words of wisdom, or just a comforting presence. LouAnn was a talented artist with paintings scattered throughout many of our homes.

As a mother, Lou Ann was a beacon of love and strength, always guiding us, her sons, Mike and Rick Dawson, with a steady hand and an open heart. Her legacy of love also extends to her grandchildren, Lauren Hammond, Amanda Dawson and Ryan Dawson who she cherished dearly. Lou Ann was preceded in death by her parents, James Sullenger and Lola Sullenger, brother Gordon Sullenger and her husband Cecil Dawson who undoubtedly welcomed her with open arms. Lou Ann is survived by her sons Michael and Rick as well as grandchildren Lauren, Amanda and Ryan and great grand children Talia, Sophia and Raleigh.

Her life will be celebrated on Friday, March 13, 2026, at 2:00 PM PST at The Alliance - A Church For Yakima, 902 South 36th Avenue, Yakima, Washington, 98902. We invite you to join us in remembering and celebrating the life of the remarkable woman that was Lou Ann Dawson.

In memory of Lou Ann, we encourage you to leave your precious memories and upload photos on her memorial page. Let's come together to celebrate her life, share our stories, and keep her loving spirit alive in all of our hearts.

Brookside Funeral Home & Crematory is caring for the family. Memories and condolences may be shared at brooksidefuneral.com.