Dawn Rae Damron

Dawn Rae Damron, 62, of Sullivan, MO, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, at Missouri Baptist Sullivan Hospital in Sullivan, MO. Born on July 2, 1962, in St. Louis, MO, to Jack and Eva (Ray) Helferstay, Dawn's life was a testament to her unwavering spirit and the joy she found in simple pleasures.

Dawn grew up and attended schools in the communities of St. Louis and Sullivan. In her early years, she brought warmth and dedication to her work at local restaurants, including Shoney's and BurgerChef. Her work was not just a job but a means to connect with and serve her community.

On June 21, 1996, Dawn married the love of her life, Roy Damron, and together they shared a journey filled with laughter, love, and cherished memories. Though Roy preceded her in death in 2020, the love they shared continued to inspire all who knew them.

Dawn's faith was the cornerstone of her existence. She was deeply involved with her church, Full Gospel Assembly of God, where she shared her musical talents by playing the piano and imparted wisdom as a Sunday School teacher. Her commitment to her faith community was profound and unwavering, touching the lives of many through her service and example.

Family was the center of Dawn's world. She was the "game master" at family gatherings, orchestrating game nights that brought joy and togetherness to those she loved most. Her presence was a source of comfort and happiness, and her absence will be deeply felt at every family event.

Dawn's hobbies were a reflection of her nurturing soul. She found solace in reading her Bible, a practice that strengthened her and provided guidance throughout her life. Her hands were rarely still, as she enjoyed crocheting beautiful creations for her loved ones. Bird and squirrel watching brought her a sense of peace and connection to nature's simple beauty.

Television classics like "Little House on the Prairie" and "The Waltons" were among Dawn's favorite shows, resonating with her appreciation for family values and simpler times. These stories mirrored the life she strived to lead, one filled with love, integrity, and community.

Dawn's fur baby, Livy, was more than a pet; she was a cherished companion. Their bond was a beautiful display of Dawn's capacity for love, extending beyond people to all of God's creatures.

To say Dawn was a loving wife is an understatement. Her devotion to Roy was a shining example of partnership and mutual respect. She cared for him with a gentle strength that was both inspiring and humbling to witness.

Dawn is survived by her two sons, Dwayne Gamache of Mississippi and Richard Whitten of Alabama; her stepdad, John Burks of Sullivan, MO; 4 siblings:  John Burks II and wife, Angela of Dittmer, MO, Dana Carrico and husband, Melvin, Velier Anderson and husband, Rodney all of Granite City, IL, and Katie Hoke and husband, Howard of Sullivan; several grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and other relatives.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Roy Damron; her mother, Eva Burks and father, Jack Helferstay; and two sisters, Eveanne Helfin and Sheila Durbin.

Services will be 12:00 PM Noon on Monday, August 5, 2024 at the Full Gospel Assembly of God Church in Sullivan with Pastor Ryan Martin officiating.  Burial will follow in Buffalo Cemetery, Sullivan.

Visitation will be 10:00 AM to 12 Noon, Monday, August 5, 2024 at the church prior to the service.

Friends may share condolences online with Dawn’s family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements are under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home of Sullivan, MO.