Obituary: Rachel Herring Dawson
Rachel Herring Dawson
August 17, 1934 – February 13, 2025
Rachel Davis Herring Dawson, 90, passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of Thursday, February 13, 2025 while in the comfort of her home. Rachel was born in Lenoir County to the late Oscar and Katie Herring on August 17, 1934. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 57 years, Lon Dawson; her sisters, Charlotte Moore, Frank Smith, and Chris Broadwell; and brothers, Jack and Oscar Herring.
Rachel had a deep love for animals, and in addition to her years at Riverbank Animal Hospital, she cared for many special pets throughout her life. She found joy in tending to her yard, nurturing flowers and plants with the same determination she brought to everything she did. An avid reader, she was a frequent visitor to the library, always eager to enjoy a new book. A lifelong member of White Oak Grove Free Will Baptist Church, Rachel’s faith was a constant in her life. Fiercely independent and never one to mince words, she had a sharp wit that made her unforgettable. She was a devoted wife, providing unwavering care to her husband in his final years. A proud mother and “Giga” to her grandchildren, she always stood by her family with unwavering loyalty and a steadfast belief in their potential. She lived life on her terms, and those who knew her best will forever remember her strength, resilience, and no-nonsense approach to the world.
A service of love and remembrance will be held on Saturday, February 15, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Rouse Funeral Home with Rev. Ray Broadwell officiating. Committal will follow at Fairview Cemetery with Pastor Bob Smith officiating. Visitation will be held prior to the service at 10:00 a.m.
Rachel is survived by her son, Neil Dawson and partner, Kate Roellgen; son, Dickie Dawson and wife, Penny; daughter, Ann Harrison; granddaughter, Erin Dawson; granddaughter, Megan Wade and husband, Lee; grandson, Seth Harrison and wife, Nicole; granddaughter, Katie Harrison; grandson, Rod McNeil and wife, Machell; great-grandchildren, Ava Wade, Kaylin Jarman, Lela Wade, and Sadie Harrison; sister, Lucille Dawson; and brothers, Jimmy and Freddie Herring.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com. Memorials may be made to La Grange Public Library, 119 East Washington Street, La Grange, NC 2855, or White Oak Grove Free Will Baptist Church, c/o Janet Brown, 1794 Jenny Lind Road, La Grange, NC 28551. Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange.
