Sybell M. Dawson

Sybell Dawson, affectionately known as “Aunt Sybell” and “Miss Syb,” was born on August 29, 1941, in Spring Vale District to Elevele and Nehemiah Mitchell. She was preceded by her two brothers, James and Samuel, and her three sisters, Murderna “Ms. T”, Rapheleta “Katie”, and Gloria “Daisy”. She has one daughter, Leonie Dawson, granddaughter, Elle Stennett, stepsons, Winston and Michael Dawson. Nieces: Veroncia (Vee), Pat, June, Hattie, Marcia, Rose, Sandra, Paulette, Vicky, Shirley, Viola, Diana (deceased), Joyce, Beverly, Patsy, Bibsy, Mearlord and many others. Nephews: Clint Nelson, Alphanso, Kirk, Clarence, Kevin and Errol. Bonus family: Pauline, Valerie, Maureen, Jessica, Karrol-Ann and Charlene, Vilma, Raymond, Amy, Angela, Kendrick, Godfrey and Errol Dewar (deceased)and many friends and extended family.

Sybell grew up in Jamaica, where she attended Spring Vale Government School. From an early age, she demonstrated a passion for learning and developed strong skills in reading, writing, and mathematics. Blessed with a creative mind, she carried a lifelong love for knowledge, self-improvement and artistic talents. In Jamaica, she met Ronald (Ronnie) Dawson, who would become her lifelong partner. After Ronald migrated to the United States, Sybill remained in Jamaica for a period before joining him abroad.

In 1968, Sybell migrated to the United States and settled in Cleveland, Ohio, where she worked caring for children. She later moved to Connecticut to reconnect with Ronald, and in September 1976, they were married, embarking on a devoted life together.

Compassionate and nurturing by nature, Sybell later trained and worked as a Nurse’s Aide/Technician at Griffin Hospital in Derby, Connecticut, where she faithfully served for over 20 years before retiring. She found joy in early morning walks, exercising, gardening, creating floral arrangements, traveling, especially on cruises, socializing with family and friends, cooking, baking, taking family photographs, and caring for others. Her delicious fruitcakes became a treasured favorite among loved ones. She also took great pride in growing her own fruits, vegetables, and flowers, always happy to share her harvest with others.

After retiring, Sybell and Ron relocated to Florida in 2002 to enjoy a warmer climate. She quickly formed new friendships within her community, becoming an active member of her local community group and Grace Fellowship Church. Retirement did not slow her down; she soon began volunteering at Palm West Hospital and serving faithfully at her church.

Sybill and Ron shared over 50 years of love, partnership, and devotion. Together they enjoyed gardening, planting fruits and vegetables reminiscent of their Jamaican roots. They nurtured mango, ackee, soursop, and orange trees, using the harvest to make fresh homemade juices. Their life together was filled with simple joys, shared adventures, and a deep appreciation for nature. They cherished and loved being grandparents.

Sybill stood faithfully by Ron’s side during his illness until his passing in 2024. The loss of her beloved husband, along with her own health challenges, weighed heavily on her. Following major surgeries in August and September 2025 and several months of hospitalization, she remained courageous throughout her battle to recover. Though her illness proved too great, in her final moments she found the strength to smile, expressing her love and gratitude to family and friends who gathered around her. On that day, God granted her the peace and strength she had prayed for.

Final Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Royal Palm Funeral Home.