Mrs. Patricia Ann Dawson, 79, passed away October 9, 2020. Mrs. Dawson was born on July 29, 1941 in Fort Devens, Massachusetts to the late Henry and Nilma Brackin and was raised in Town Creek, Alabama where she graduated from Hazelwood High School. After marrying Rayburn, they moved to Highland Park, New Jersey where they raised their three children who were the light of her life, until her grandchildren emerged to become the main focus of her attention. Although being a mother and grandmother was her most important job, Patricia was skilled in many areas. Patricia started her working career at her mother's diner, The Park Diner, in Highland Park. She was a trained Beautician, Quality Control Inspector at Revlon, Retail Sales Associate at Nordstrom and a master at making and selling flower arrangements and decorations for weddings and celebrations. She was also an excellent baker and enjoyed making holiday treats with her grandchildren. Holidays were always a time for Patricia to open her home to share a feast with her family, friends, and those she knew that, would be alone and didn't have loved ones to celebrate with. Patricia was a woman of faith with a heart of gold. She served as the organist at the First Baptist Church of Metuchen and Highland Park. She loved music and enjoyed singing in the church choir. She loved a good dance party, and dancing with Rayburn and her children. She always helped those in need, especially seniors who were home bound and couldn't get out to have their hair done. Patricia enjoyed a good adventure and loved to travel. Riding burros in the Grand Canyon, hiking the waterfalls of Yosemite, whitewater rafting in Oregon were just a few of her many outdoor adventures with her family. Her bags were always packed and ready for her next journey. Her love of flowers and decorating was highlighted when she worked on floats for the Rose Bowl Parade. Patricia passed on her love of music, baking, and compassion and caring for others to her children and grandchildren. Patricia welcomed everyone with open arms and instantly made new friends. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and friend. She will be missed tremendously by all those who had the privilege of knowing her. The family will hold a private memorial service at a later date. Mrs. Dawson is survived by her husband of 62 years, Ray Dawson; son, Brian Dawson (Mary) and their children, Brandon, Alissa, Garrett, Breanne, Brett, and Brooke; daughter, Pamela Van Belle (John) and their children, Matthew, David, and Samantha; daughter, Cynthia Ferretti (Anthony) and their children, Gavyn, and Alexis. Holland Funeral Service & Crematory has the privilege to care for the Dawson family.