Mary “Missy” Edith Dawson passed away peacefully while surrounded by family and friends, on May 10, 2017, in New Orleans, LA. She was 67.
Missy was born in Natchez, MS on July 4, 1949. For the last 30 years, she lived in New Orleans. She spent much of her adult life fishing and entertaining in Venice, LA. as she loved nothing more than being on or near the water. Anyone that had the fortunate experience of meeting her there, truly knows her as the “Queen of Venice”. Missy, who never met a stranger, always wanted to make people feel at home, even in her final moments. When being around her, you couldn’t help but laugh or smile because of her charm and quick wit.
Missy is survived by her three brothers; Lev (Ann), Steve (Kathleen), and Bobby (Barbara) Dawson, two daughters; Tanya Romero and Simone Reggie; grandchildren Dawson and Madison Romero and their father Luke. Finally, she is survived by Ray Thorne, her partner, who has been by her side and aiding in her care throughout a long illness, showing her unconditional love. She is preceded in death by her parents, Lev Dawson and Elizabeth Lirette.
A special thanks to the staff at East Jefferson Hospital, Chateau Notre Dame and Canon Hospice.
Memorial services will be held at the Metairie home of THARP-SONTHEIMER-THARP, 1600 N. Causeway Blvd. at 43rd St. on Wednesday, May 17, 2017 at 1:00 PM, with visitation beginning at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Akula Foundation, on behalf of Canon Hospice, or the John Besh Foundation. Condolences may be expressed online at www.tharpsontheimerfh.com.