Clifford Charles Dawson

Clifford C. Dawson 1934-2023 SANFORD—It is with great sadness that the family of Clifford C. “Poppy” Dawson, 89, of Sanford, announce his passing on Monday, August 14, 2023, at his home. He was born in Jamaica Plain, March 23, 1934, the son of Henry J. and Margaret (Doherty) Dawson. He was raised in Jamaica Plain. He had the greatest affection for his 4 brothers and 3 sisters. Cliffy loved taking long trips with them and their Mom and Dad from Boston to Dennisport, Cape Cod. His youngest and only living brother says,” He was an awesome brother!” As a young man he had the rare opportunity to play for a minor league affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies. Cliff and his wife, Barbara started their family in Mattapan, MA then completed it in Plymouth. He cherished his growing family and they meant everything to him! Cliff served in the Air Force from 1951 to 1955 during the Korean Conflict as a Military Policeman. He was a Boston Police Officer for 32 years. He retired in 1994 and he and Barbara moved to Carlsbad, CA where he really got to practice a lot of the golfing he was so fond of. That’s where he also joined the Knights of Columbus and actually became a Knight. In 2020, he and Barbara moved to Sanford to be closer to their family. Beside being a die-hard Boston sports fan, he enjoyed ending his evenings with some form of chocolate, a glass of milk, and a kiss from his sweetheart. He was a grateful member of AA for 49 years and selflessly helped many in need along the way. Cliff could be stubborn and even grumpy at times but he also had a huge heart, an amazing ability to listen and comfort, and such a inspiring spiritual strength. He was so knowledgeable and always had great stories to share. He didn’t let too much time go by without reminding someone, like a proud father does, of something his own son and Prince of Peace, Michael, taught him, “Don’t Worry, Be Happy”! Cliffy was a devout Catholic with a strong faith who enjoyed volunteering as an usher and time spent with friends at church and within the community. Cliff was special to all that loved him. He will be dearly missed but never forgotten! Cliff was predeceased by his son, Michael Dawson and his grandson, JoJo Pagliarani and daughter-in-law Heidi Dawson. He is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Barbara (silva) Dawson; his loved and cherished children, Suzanne Perry and her husband Wayne of Sanford, Donna Greer and her husband Mel of Arkansas, Kathleen Young and her husband Andy of California, Clifford Dawson, Jr. and his wife Nicole of Brooklyn, NY, Patrick Dawson and his wife Pamela of Buzzards Bay, MA and Dori Dagley and her husband Dale of Jacksboro, TN; his doting grandchildren, Wayne Perry and his wife Ashley, Allison Walker and her husband Mike, Ashley Avants and her husband Jared, Renee Cain and her husband Chad, Josh Young and his husband Raul Reyezz, Danielle Pagliarani, Alex Dawson, Brandi Baird and Daniel Dagley and his wife Ally as well as 24 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Therese of Lisieux Parish, Holy Family Church on September 9, 2023, at 10:00 AM. In lieu of flowers please make memorial contribution in his name to DAV (Disabled American Veterans). www.dav.org