IRVINGTON—Janet Crockett “Ma” Dawson, 94, of Irvington passed away peacefully on May 16, 2025. She was born on January 1, 1931, to the late Vernon and Doris Crockett.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 57 years, Barron “Poppa” Dawson; her son, Barron “Barry” E. Dawson Jr; her daughter, Robin Whaley; and brothers, Vernon “Buddy” Crockett, Jimmie Lee Crockett and Paul Wilborn.
She is survived by her brother, Ronnie (Cathy) Crockett; sister-in-law, Doris (Paul) Wilborn; daughter-in-law, Patty (Barry); son-in-law, Ray (Robin); four grandchildren, Jarrett, Justin (Roger), Erin (John) and Ryan (Shannon); four great-grandchildren, Lilly, McKynzi, Brieghton and Dawson; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Janet was affectionately called “Ma” by all of her “kids” that she loved with her entire heart. There were few things in life that brought a bigger smile to her face than children. Ma and Poppa attended countless ball games, graduations, birthday parties and other events for their grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Janet loved her family and hosted most of the holiday gatherings, sometimes with as many as 40 people in her home.
She couldn’t wait until a good snow fell to go sledding down Crockett’s Hill with the kids. She was famous for her delicious cakes that were a staple at all family gatherings and birthdays. She loved growing a garden, so she could make her pickles that were a favorite of her family and friends. Flowers and birds, especially cardinals, brought her such joy. She had an incredibly strong faith in God that guided the life she lived and the love she shared.
Janet worked at Lancaster National Bank from 1948-1953, stepping away to raise her children until 1965 when she returned to Chesapeake National Bank. She worked full-time and part-time with the bank until her retirement in 2015. She was a lifelong member of Irvington United Methodist Church, where she was active in the United Methodist Women’s group and sang in the choir for decades.
A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. June 28 at Irvington United Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Irvington United Methodist Church or White Stone Volunteer Fire Department. If you are attending the service, the family requests you wear bright colors to represent Janet’s love of flowers and birds.
