Word reached the Chancellor’s Office of the passing of Sister Joan Helen Dawson, OSF, on March 16, 2025, in St. Elizabeth Motherhouse, Allegany, NY.  Sister Dawson served for many years as the Superintendent of Schools in the Diocese of St. Petersburg.

She entered the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany on September 8, 1959, was received into the Congregation on July 2, 1960, and professed her final vows on July 3, 1961. For 66 years, Sister Dawson faithfully lived her vows to God through her ministry and life in community.  She spent most of her religious life serving as a high school teacher and administrator, primarily in South Florida.

Sister Dawson is survived by one sister, Kathleen Jackson of Warner Robins, GA; niece and nephews.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a sister, Dolores Powers, and two cousins, the Rev. Paul J. Freemesser and Dr. George Freemesser.

A Mass of Christian Burial took place on March 19, 2025 in the St. Elizabeth Motherhouse chapel, followed by burial in St. Bonaventure Cemetery.

For condolences, please visit www.letromcintoshspinkfuneralhome.com.

Please keep Sister Dawson and her family in your thoughts and prayers.

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May her soul and the souls of all the faithful
departed, by the mercy of God, rest in peace!