Elizabeth Coffee Dawson

Elizabeth “Liz” C. Dawson, known lovingly as Liz, passed away on Saturday, September 28, 2024. Liz was the embodiment of dedication, both as a mother and a public servant. She began her career as an aide, then moved on to the House Appropriations Committee on the Military Construction Subcommittee focusing on policies that supported the everyday needs of enlisted service members and their families. Her compassion and commitment to service were hallmarks of her career. In her role as Clerk for the Legislative Branch Subcommittee, Liz navigated critical moments in our nation’s history, such as the 9/11 attacks, anthrax attacks, and major Capitol infrastructure updates, including that of the Capital Visitors Center. She took great pride in mentoring newly appointed committee members, offering her vast knowledge and experience to help guide their paths in leadership as public servants.

While Liz’s career was marked by hard work and meaningful accomplishments, her greatest joy, as she relentlessly reminded me, was being a mother to me, Margaret “Maggie” Dawson. She was truly my biggest supporter and went out of her way to do anything for me. Liz leaves behind her mother, Helen Moe Coffee, her brother, Robert Coffee, myself, and her beloved grand dog, Jax. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and colleagues, who remember her steady hand, generosity, and love for those around her.

A funeral service will be held at Saint Peter’s Catholic Church, 313 Second St., Washington, D.C. 20003 on Friday, October 25th, 2024, at 10:00am. All are welcome to join and celebrate her and her impact. Liz was most proud of Maggie working as a public defender, so to honor her memory please consider contributing to the Association for the Public Defender of Maryland.