James W. Dawson

Pawtucket - James William Dawson, 79, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, after fighting for nearly three years with esophageal cancer. He was the loving companion of the late Victoria Troxell for eighteen great years. Born in Pawtucket, he was a son of the late George W. and Joan C. (Cullen) Dawson.

He leaves his brother, Brad S. Dawson and his wife, Olivita "DeeDee," of Weaverville, NC, his beloved daughter, Cara B. Dawson and her partner, Brendan of Boston, MA, his former wife, Maria (Petrarca) Dawson of Weymouth, MA, and many dear friends.

Jim was a graduate of St. Raphael Academy and received his bachelor's degree from Rhode Island College. He honorably served in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War and was stationed in Turkey. Upon his return home, Jim completed his education by earning his master's degree from Bryant College. He worked for thirty-one years for the State of Rhode Island Office of Disability Determination Services in various roles including a Hearings Officer and Professional Relations Officer.

An avid sports fan, Jim was a Patriots season ticket holder since the 1980's and also loved watching the Red Sox, Celtics, and Bruins. He enjoyed writing and circulated a weekly sports paper known as the "Sportzine." Jim also loved Rock n' Roll music going back to the 1960's.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Teresa of the Child Jesus Church, 358 Newport Avenue, Pawtucket. VISITATION will be held prior to the Mass from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at the WILLIAM W. TRIPP Funeral Home, 1008 Newport Ave., Pawtucket.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: Brown University Health Cancer Institute - Cancer Research Fund, Development Office, P.O. Box H, Providence, RI 02901or online at https://giving.brownhealth.org/brown-health-cancer-institute