John B. Dawson, Jr.

John B. Dawson, Jr., a longtime resident of Glen Head, NY, died peacefully on February 12, 2025. He was 94. A steadfast husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, much of John's life was spent on or near the water.

John was predeceased by his wife, Darle Gertrude “Trudy”, with whom he shared 65 years of love and friendship. He is survived by his two daughters, Darle Jennifer Dawson (Robert R. Townsend) and Susan (Michael D.) Perlman. He was a proud grandfather to Darle Bailey Riordan and Daeya Dawson Perlman.

Born in Bayside, NY, John attended Duke University, where he earned his law degree. He proudly served his country with the U.S. Navy toward the end of the Korean War. Following his military service, John built a distinguished legal career, founding his law practice, John B. Dawson, Jr., Esq. P.C., initially based in Mineola, NY.

For many years, he enjoyed using his free time to support community endeavors. In 1964, he and his wife joined the Sea Cliff Yacht Club. Almost two decades later, John was elected Commodore for two consecutive terms. Additionally, he was honored to be the Chairman of the Board for The Friends of Cedarmere, the historic estate home of William Cullen Bryant. John championed the restoration and preservation of that local history and culture. As one of the founders of the Around Long Island Regatta, John's love of sailing found a larger community and continues to inspire new and old sailors alike.

He earned his pilot’s license before his driver’s license and had a lifelong enthusiasm for speed, including auto rallying in Watkins Glen and Bridgehampton. He enjoyed playing tennis, had a love of music and was a talented musician, both singing and playing ukulele, and banjo. 

There were few things that John would say no to. He greeted every new opportunity with dedication, kindness and a sense of humor. He will be profoundly missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege to know him. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, June 26th, 4-8 PM at Whitting Funeral Home, 300 Glen Cove Ave., Glen Head NY, 11545. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in John’s memory to The Friends of Cedarmere.