Dawn Gralyn Iannucci

Dawn Gralyn Iannucci, age 33, passed away Wednesday, November 23, 2011 in Houston, Texas from complications related to a lifelong struggle with severe asthma. A true testament to her strength, Dawn strived for a career in medicine in spite of her physical limitations.

Dawn was born in Cape May, New Jersey and attended Sachem schools on Long Island, N.Y., graduated with honors at Notre Dame High School in Fairfield, CT, graduated from Alfred University, Alfred, N.Y., came to Texas as a holder of N.H. grant to the University of Houston, Dept of Anesthesia, attended UT Houston medical school until her health required withdrawl in her 2nd year. She currently was attending UT Houston School of Public Health working toward her Master's Degree at the time of her passing.

Dawn was State Certified as a Clinical Research Coordinator and has been involved as a Coordinator of Clinical Research at UT Houston Dept. of Anesthesiology. She was published in several journals and was working on a transcript for an anesthesiology text book.

Dawn was the daughter of Lynn Becroft Iannucci and predeceased by her father, Lawrence William Iannucci. She is survived by her brothers, Derek Iannucci and wife Akilah, Duncan Iannucci; half sister: Cheryl Algeria; half brothers: Lawrence Iannucci, David Iannucci and nephews Lorenzo, Vance, Bradley and Andrew.

Dawn touched the lives of many. Her generous spirit, loyalty and compassion were intrinsic. Volunteering was second nature. She helped with the evacuation and placement of victims of Hurricane Katrina. As a child, she did not allow her handicap to stop her. She was involved in sports and played the cello. She loved research and her friends. Even as her body failed, she still strived to succeed in academia and life. Her will was contagious. She will always be loved and missed.

Dawn's Celebration of Life will be 2:30 p.m. Saturday, December 3, 2011 in the Chapel of Earthman Resthaven.