Charles Daniel Dawson

On Wednesday, December 3, 2025, the Lord called home another one of his angels, Charles Daniel Dawson, affectionately known as “Tennie”. He was born in Houston, TX on November 30, 1952, to the parents of Ivory and Sally Mae Dawson, who preceded him in death. He was blessed to grow up in a large family and was the sixth of ten children. On July 14, 1978, Charles Dawson married the love of his life Diane Dawson; whom he honored and cherished for 47 beautiful years. Born of this union were three children, one son and two daughters.

Charles was a proud graduate of B.C. Elmore High School and was accepted to attend Texas A&M University on a full scholarship in track and field. In 1976 he received his Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education and a minor in Business Administration. He excelled in his studies and as a track star. Charles had the gift of speed and was considered one of the fastest men in the United States. However, his determination did not stop there as Charles went on to set the business world ablaze.

At the young age of 25, Charles became the President and CEO of Dawson Chemicals and Janitorial Supply Company. His business was successful and grew exponentially, leading him to open two additional locations, U.S. Met¬ro Chemicals (1982) and City Wide Chemical and Janitorial Supply (1992). He would also go on to own and manage a vast portfolio of commercial real estate. Charles’ success is largely due in part to the support of his one and only love, Diane.

Charles is revered as a visionary, leader, and pillar throughout the Houston community. His quiet confidence, kind heart, and generous spirit touched countless lives—whether through his mentorship of young entrepreneurs, his unwavering support of local outreach programs, or the simple grace with which he treated everyone he met. He led not through words alone, but through consistent action, integrity, and a genuine desire to see others succeed.

Charles’ faith anchored every part of his life. As a child, he attended Little Union Missionary Baptist Church and later joined Good Shepherd Mission¬ary Baptist Church. Charles prayed and read his bible faithfully. In his past time, he loved spending time with his family, fishing, traveling, watching sports, eating his snacks and enjoying a good steak meal occasionally.

Charles leaves behind to honor his memory, his devoted wife Diane Dawson; his children, Omar Dawson (Michelle), Deondra Dawson-Johnson (Jerome), Sharonda Dawson, Trina Perkins-Mouton (Lawrence); nine grandchildren, Omisha Dawson, Jessica Dawson, Xzavier D. Mouton, O’Darius Dawson, Amira Dawson, Genesis Mouton, Kingston Johnson, Omar Dawson II, Zaire Johnson; and five great-grandchildren, Aaliyah Samuel, Journey Dawson, Aaliyah Mouton, Xzavier F. Mouton, Dante Mouton. He will also be forever remembered by his six remaining siblings and a host of many other relatives and friends.

Charles “Tennie” Dawson’s legacy will forever live in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. His life was a testament to hard work, persever¬ance, and unwavering faith in God. He taught by example—showing that true success is not measured by wealth or status, but by the lives touched and the love shared along the way.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race,

I have kept the faith.” - 2 Timothy 4:7