Terry Lynn Dawson (Ray), aged 70, passed away on Dec. 26, 2025, surrounded by her family and friends. She was born on Aug. 16, 1955, in Salem, Missouri, to Bill and Norma Jean Ray. Terry lived a life devoted to her Lord and Savior, and her family and friends.
Terry lived in Licking, Missouri, most of her life and was a graduate of Licking High School in 1973. After graduation, she continued her education by pursuing an agricultural science degree at Mizzou in Columbia, Missouri. Terry then returned home, where she met the love of her life, Steven Burrett Dawson. They married on March 11, 1978.
Terry was a very hard worker all her life. She worked for Town & Country Bank (originally Peoples Security Bank) for over 40 years, starting as a teller and earning her way to a branch vice president, holding many positions in between. She did all this while also tending to the farm, alongside her husband. She helped raise dogs, cattle, mules and horses. She had a fondness for animals (especially strays) and frequently brought home “new pets” of all manner, including dogs, cats, chickens, bunnies, birds, goats, geese, ferrets and even a peacock she found roaming our pasture. Shortly after she rescued the peacock, she worried it was lonely and bought it a mate.
After retiring, Terry got to enjoy her favorite hobbies full time. You could always find her (and Steve) camping at the Big Piney River, fishing at the farm or riding her favorite horse and mule, Sparky and Snickers, on many cross-country adventures with her friends, whom she loved dearly.
Terry was preceded in death by her father and mother, Bill and Norma Jean Ray; and in-laws, Verl and June Dawson. She is survived by her husband, Steve Dawson; son, Derek Dawson (Reta); daughter, Stefanie King (Ammon); sister-in-law Ann Long (Terry); three beloved grandchildren, Taylor Crews (Jared), Zoey Dawson and Jake Dawson; and two great-grandchildren, Blair and Reese Crews; as well as many nephews, great-nieces and cousins.
A memorial visitation for Terry will be is 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2025, at Fox Funeral Home. A private inurnment will take place in the Licking Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in Terry’s name to Hospice of Care. Arrangements entrusted to Fox Funeral Home, Licking. Online condolences may be left at www.foxfh.net.
PAID