Dawn Diane Denell

Our beloved mother, grandmother and friend, Dawn Diane Denell, passed away peacefully after a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure. Though her time here feels far too short, she lived boldly and on her own terms—splitting her days between her beloved hometown of Cabin John, Maryland, and her home away from home in Simpsonville, South Carolina.

Dawn was preceded in death by her true love and childhood sweetheart, Billy. Theirs was a romance for the history books. Meeting as children in elementary school, they counted the days until they were finally allowed to date, and eventually married. Their love was the foundation of her life, and she carried it with her always. Dawn and Billy shared many great adventures over the years and proved to us all - true love can conquer all.

Dawn was a devoted mother to Kara (Darrell) and Brian (Sasha), and the extremely proud Mim to Charlie, Mackenzie, Sumer and Emerson. In her later years, she found joy, laughter, and adventure with her partner in crime, Ron —whom she affectionately referred to as "Ron the Con." She is also survived by her brothers and sisters, along with many extended family members and countless loved ones who will carry her memory in their hearts forever.

A true free spirit who knew how to have a good time, Dawn found happiness cruising on the back of a Harley Davidson, the pull of a slot machine, or simply a glass of wine in the garage after a long day of yard work. Dawn knew how to turn ordinary moments into memories.

Those who knew Dawn will remember her quick wit, her gift of gab, her love of DC politics and her fearless way of embracing life. Family was her greatest treasure, and she poured her heart into every gathering, every laugh, and every moment shared. Dawn also had a flair for style that was uniquely her own. She adored fashion and filled her closets with clothing and accessories that expressed her vibrant personality. Her signature red-framed glasses, cherished pink lipstick, and spritz of Good Girl perfume were never far from reach, making her presence known in any room she entered. Her motto in life - buy the shoes and eat the cake.

She celebrated life in big ways and small ones, and her greatest pride and joy was her family. She never missed an opportunity to brag about her children and grandchildren, and the love she poured into them will live on for generations. She leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and resilience. Though she is no longer here in body, the memories she created will carry her spirit forward through all who were lucky enough to know her.

And now, after a life lived with courage, joy, and love, Dawn is reunited with her one true love, Billy—together again, hand in hand, in eternal peace.

"Her children rise up and call her blessed." - Proverbs 31:28

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." - 2 Timothy 4:7