Nancy Dawson

Nancy Ellen Dawson, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 13, 2026 at the age of 76. Born on July 16, 1949 in Evansville, Indiana, Nancy lived a life defined by compassion, service, and an unwavering commitment to helping others. Her life was shaped by her relationship with Jesus, the foundation of how she lived and the source of the love and grace she extended so freely to others. More than anything, it was her greatest hope that her family, and all those she encountered, would come to know the same faith in Jesus that guided her.

Mick and Nancy married on March 26, 1976. As a couple, they had a heart for serving others, leading many Bible studies, Sunday School classes, and small groups throughout the years, forging deep friendships that would last a lifetime. Together they served as foster parents for many years, opening their home and heart to children who needed safety, love, and stability. Through their care they profoundly changed lives, even saving the futures of young people who might otherwise have been lost. Nancy continued this passion even after the passing of Mick.

She dedicated many years of her career as a teacher and guidance counselor, where she touched the lives of countless students with her wisdom, patience, and encouragement. For many, she was more than a counselor: she was a steady voice, a safe place, and someone who believed in them when they needed it most.

Above all, Nancy cherished her family. She is survived by her daughters Tamara (Eric) Buell, Jenelle (Keith) Leppla; step-daughters Christy (John) Swaney, Barb Dawson; foster son Troy Wycuff; grandchildren Justine, Jesse, Courtney, Hannah, Paige, Jessica and Kaleb; her siblings Ralph (Chris) Bressler, Becky (Brad) Hoffman, and Diane Kimball (Michael Harris), along with many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by parents William and Ione Bressler, her beloved husband Mick Dawson, daughter Tara Parker, and sister Robin Smith. 

Those who loved her will remember her for her generous spirit, her deep compassion, and the innumerable ways she showed up for others, often quietly and without recognition. Her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched, the students she encouraged, the children she protected, and the family she loved so dearly. Her kindness, strength, and quiet wisdom will remain a guiding light to all who knew her.

Even in her death, Nancy is still giving of herself, choosing to donate her body to The Ohio State University College of Medicine. Friends and family are invited to gather for a visitation on Thursday, March 19th from 4-7pm at Reynoldsburg Church of the Nazarene. A Celebration of Life service will be held on Friday, March 20th at 11am at Reynoldsburg Church of the Nazarene. Nancy's service will be livestreamed at: https://www.youtube.com/live/Gj3i15xmx3Q?si=TW4kIJuFNwhghuaq

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations in her memory to Alicia’s Closet, a nonprofit organization serving the foster care community in Central Ohio. https://donorbox.org/alicia-s-closet-monthly-giving-program

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