William Jackson Dawson

Jack was born in Pecos, Texas on September 19, 1912. At eight years of age, he and his family left Pecos in a covered wagon. With the wagon breaking down in Ft. Stockton, the family sold all their possessions, bought train tickets and arrived at their final destination of San Antonio.

Because of a friend who made him go to church, Jack met Jesus as his personal Savior. He met Minnie Langston, through her cousin and a fellow Southern Pacific Railroad worker, and married her on his birthday in 1934. He and Minnie were charter members of Shearer Hills Baptist Church where he taught 5th/6th grade Sunday school for over 50 years.

After 41 years with the railroad, Jack's retirement included many volunteer hours with Beautify San Antonio Association, maintaining the flags of all 50 states at the Patio of States at the San Antonio Convention Center. Throughout his life, Jack taught children about the Bible whether he met them at church or shopping. Jack's life has been honored with a J.C. Penny Volunteer Award.

Survivors: daughter, Sylvia Nichols; son-in-law, Bill Nichols; grandson and wife, Chris and Amy Nichols; and great grandson, Corbin Nichols, all of Arlington, Texas.

Memorials may be made to the Children's Ministry at Shearer Hills Baptist Church, 12615 San Pedro, San Antonio, Texas, Beautify San Antonio Association, Children's Ministry at Mission Arlington, 300 South St., 76010; First Baptist Church of Arlington, 300 S. Center, 76010 or the Arlington ISD Education Foundation, 1141 W. Pioneer Parkway, 76012