James "Jimmy" Nelson Dawson, Jr., age 82, passed from his earthly life Sunday, April 16, 2023 following a long and fruitful life.

He was born March 19, 1941 in Wilmington, the son of James Nelson Dawson and Marjorie Goodwin Dawson. In addition to his parents Jimmy was preceded in death by his sister, Marjorie Sue D. Ellis.

Jimmy is survived by his devoted wife, Ruth Blanchard Dawson of the home; son, James Nelson Dawson III of Atkinson; daughters, Marjorie Dawson Bailey (Dave) of Isle of Palms, SC and Virginia Dell Dawson Allen (Andy) of Wilmington; grandsons, Dawson Bailey, Owen Bailey, Max Allen and Mason Allen; sisters, Helen D. Newell and Jane D. Peterson (Cary); several nieces and nephews; many extended family members and friends.

Jimmy attended East Carolina University and Miller-Motte College. He then began a long career with International Paper Company, retiring after working for over 35 years.

Jimmy was a man of many interests and talents. First and foremost, Jimmy was a loving  and caring husband, daddy, granddaddy, and brother. He was mechanically inclined, loved trouble shooting any problem and could fix anything. Jimmy loved Carolina Tar Heels, NASCAR, and Western movies. Jimmy spent one whole summer assisting James with his Eagle Scout Project which was mapping Haw Bluff Baptist Church Cemetery. What an outstanding job father and son did on that project. Jimmy went on many scout camping trips with James, and they even talked Ruth into some of those over nights. Jimmy never met a stranger. Anywhere he went by the time he left he not only knew everyone's name he knew their history even down to what kind of car they owned. Jimmy's presence in our lives will be greatly missed, but he will forever remain in our hearts.

Graveside service will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, April 22, 2023 at Haw Bluff Baptist Church Cemetery with Pastor Jacob Lewis conducting the service. The family will visit with friends at the cemetery following the service.

Shared memories and condolences may be sent to the family by selecting Tribute Wall.

A service of Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home Burgaw Chapel.