John C. Dawson, Jr.

John Carlton Dawson, Jr., age 68, of Gulfport, passed away on Saturday, July 8, 2023.

He was born on August 5, 1954 in Washington, D.C. to John Carlton Dawson and Sarah Dever Dawson and resided in Gulfport for the last 52 years.

After graduating from Gulfport East High School in 1972, he earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Mississippi, a master's degree from the University of Southern Mississippi, and a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Mississippi School of Law.

John practiced law in Mississippi for more than 40 years and served as city prosecutor for the cities of Gulfport and Diamondhead.  Before attending law school, he served as a detective with the Gulfport Police Department.

He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy Reserve, and was a member and past Exalted Ruler of the Gulfport Elks Lodge # 978.

John is survived by his devoted and loving wife, Debbie Walley Dawson; his sister, Lynn Dawson Oakes (David) of Brandon, MS; his nieces, Sarah Oakes of Dallas, TX and Rachel Oakes Vaughn (Jake) of Louisville, KY; his stepson, Trey Walker (Lacy); his step grandchildren, Dylan Walker (Emma), Laiken Walker, Jack Walker, and Brynley Walker; and his step great granddaughter, Oaklynn Walker, all of Red Banks, MS.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in John's honor to GCOPS, PO Box 1269, Gulfport, MS 39502.

A memorial service with honors will be held at 2:00 PM, Saturday, July 22, 2023, at Harvest Church, 15523 Landon Road, Gulfport.

Riemann Family Funeral Home, Long Beach, is serving the family.