Gail Louise Rhea Dawson, of Reedsport, Oregon, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on September 13th, 2025. Gail was born on November 14, 1949, in Eureka, California, to Charles Raymond Rhea and Evelyn Louise Beesley Miller Rhea Rourick.

Gail grew up in Marysville, Linda, and Olivehurst, California, where she attended Marysville High School before continuing her education at SWOCC and Skelton Beauty School. These early experiences shaped her love of learning and her dedication to caring for others.

On February 15, 1969, Gail married James C. Dawson in Reedsport. The following year they got the shock of their lives when she delivered little twin girls instead of a big feisty boy! Together they made their home in Reedsport, where they built their life and raised their family.

Throughout her life, Gail worked in roles that reflected her generosity and work ethic. She was a wonderful cook who prepared meals for the Senior Center, and she spent many years working as a CNA in several nursing homes, later serving as a home health aide supervisor. She also delivered prescription medications with a .357 on her side, for Bi-Mart, a job she enjoyed because it allowed her to connect with people in the community. Of all her work, she most loved being a beautician, and she took great pride in teaching others the skills she had mastered.

Gail’s creativity and kindness showed up in nearly everything she did. She loved to sew, making clothes and costumes for her children when they were young. She enjoyed singing, volunteering, and helping others whenever she could. She served as a Brownie leader, cooked for the Girl Scouts Camp, and taught Sunday School. She also supported church youth activities alongside her husband. She sang in the Sweet Adeline’s and several Cantata’s in town. Gail gave her time generously, volunteering for Dial-A-Ride and helping at the Reedsport Library. She was an avid reader, and she always found small, thoughtful ways to make her family feel special. She will be missed by all who knew and loved her.