Margaret S. Dawson

Margaret Schmitt Dawson, 87, passed away Thursday, May 9, 2019 in Birmingham, Alabama. Maggie, as her friends called her, was known for her kindness, her wonderful sense of humor, and her seriously good hugs. Her generous hugs.

She enjoyed a good British mystery, feeding her songbirds, watching Jill Gilardi’s weather reports, and caring for the neighborhood’s many cats. She was a one-woman block- watch regiment, always ready to report on the comings and goings of all the local folks. She loved ice cream with chocolate sprinkles, taco salad, and the occasional beer poured over ice. Most of all, she loved to spend time laughing with her family. #bhamfamjam

Maggie was born in Birmingham August 11, 1931. She graduated from Woodlawn High School in 1948. Her varied career included (after an unsuccessful interview at South Central Bell where she fibbed about having deafness in her left ear – she could tell a tall tale!) positions at Blue Cross, Eastern Airlines, and Brownell Travel, where she worked for more than 25 years. She was a life-long Methodist and member of Oakmont United Methodist Church for more than 50 years.

She is survived by her husband of 64 years, Robert G. Dawson, Jr.; a son, Robert G. Dawson, III (Lynda); three daughters, Anne Dawson, Barbara Dawson, and Lea Dawson Lorino (Michael); seven grandchildren, Graham Dawson, Sara Garrett, Sam Lorino, Laura Beth Garrett, Elena Lorino, Aaron Overton, and Graham Overton. She is also survived by her great-granddaughter, Kori Mae Lange, and special family friends Alesia Adams and June Bowen.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

And, seriously hug the ones you love. Generously.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, May 14, 2019 at 1:30 at Ridout's Valley Chapel. Memorial service will follow at 2:30.