Bonnie Bernice Dawson

Bonnie Bernice Dawson, 94, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 17, 2025, at the Odd Fellow-Rebekah Home in Mattoon, Illinois. She was born on April 16, 1931, in Advance, Indiana, the daughter of the late Earl and Esther (Morrison) Reese.

On March 29, 1953, Bonnie married Morris Keith “Diz” Dawson in Lebanon, Indiana. They shared a loving marriage until his passing on November 10, 2000.

A graduate of Lebanon High School, Bonnie worked as a filing clerk at the Indianapolis Federal Court before dedicating much of her time to caring for her sisters during their illnesses—an example of her lifelong devotion to family.

Bonnie was a longtime member of Central Christian Church in Lebanon and actively involved in several community organizations, including the Ladies of Elks, American Legion Post 113, and the Fraternal Order of Eagles Lebanon 2062. She loved cooking and was a passionate sports fan, especially when cheering for Purdue and the Colts. Above all, Bonnie will be remembered as a devoted wife, a caring mother, and a proud grandmother and great-grandmother. Her warmth, strength, and love will be deeply missed.

She is survived by her daughter, Jennie S. (Jerry) Rudisill of Tolono, IL; grandchildren, Michael E. (Haley) Miller of Sidney, IL, and Elijah D. Miller of Schaumburg, IL, along with his fiancée, Amira Hattab; step grandsons, Jake L. Rudisill and Ted Wells; and her great-granddaughters, Layla R. and Stella J. Miller.

In addition to her parents and husband, Bonnie was preceded in death by her beloved sisters, Lenora Sharp, Deloris VanZandt, Margaret Williamson, and Alice Bell.

Funeral Services are planned for 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at Myers Mortuary, 1502 North Lebanon Street, in Lebanon, Indiana. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Interment will follow services at Old Union Cemetery in Jamestown, Indiana.

Memorials may be directed in her memory to the Alzheimer’s Association Greater Indiana Chapter, 50 East 91st Street, Suite 100, Indianapolis, Indiana 46240-1554.