Shirley Grace Johnson Oran Dawson 87 years old of age, passed on Tuesday October 8, 2024 at her home in Sweetwater following a long-term illness.
Shirley was born February 11, 1937 in Salem Valley, Roane County Tennessee to the late Rufus and Lucy Marie Johnson. She was the sister to Mary, Sue, Ruth, Louise, John, and Larry, four preceded her in death. Shirley was educated in the Roane County school system, graduating Midway High School, class of 1955.
Following graduation Shirley married the late Kenneth (Buzz) Oran and three children were born from this union. They lived in the Fender’s community outside of Sweetwater and she attended church at Fender’s UMC.
Following Kenneth’s death, Shirley married Henry Dawson, who preceded her in death, June 2024. They enjoyed many years together, traveling, gardening, and hosting family gatherings.
She is survived by following family members:
son Randy Oran of Decatur, Tennessee
daughter and son-in-law Winona (Tootie) and Michael Bailey, Oak Ridge, Tennessee
devoted daughter and son-in-law Susan and Terry Miller, Sweetwater, Tennessee
sister and brother-in-law Ruth and Gilbert West, Loudon, Tennessee
brother John Johnson, Philadelphia, Tennessee
grandchildren, Ryan and Margaret Richards and their son Joe: Rachel and Aaron O’Neal and their children Aidan, Adelyn, Connor, Katherine, and Lily: Crystal and Matt Curtis and their children Harper and Jett: Stephen Bryant, and many nieces and nephews
Special thanks to private caregivers, Sarah and Courtney Dawson for all their love and tender care. Special friends Tony and Anna, Bill and Eva, Bill and Jackie, Mae and Bobby, and the many friends from Cedar Fork Church Community and Fender’s Church Community.
The family will receive friends and family on Saturday, October 12th at Kyker Funeral Homes, Sweetwater, Tennessee from 1:00 to 3:00 pm, with funeral service to follow, with Rev. Mitchell Anderson. Burial will be at Fender’s Church Cemetery.
A celebration of life dinner will follow at Luttrell Community Center with family and friends to honor Shirley and her favorite foods. We will always remember your smiling face and the laughter we shared.