Dawn Rosemary Crist crossed over to her eternal life on May 28, 2022, at the age of 93, in Lancaster, CA. She passed peacefully in her sleep surrounded by her family. Born in Bury St. Edmunds, England, she led a full and loving life. Dawn’s early childhood was filled with fun memories of bike riding, blackberry picking and enjoying the English countryside. Then in 1939, World War II hit England and her school days were filled with wearing gas masks and hiding in bomb shelters. She took it all in stride but her teen years were not easy. As fate would have it, an army base was located near her hometown, and there she met Marvin (Sr.), to whom she was married for 54 years. Traveling in 1952 to settle in the Mojave Desert after living her entire life in the lush green of England was quite an adjustment, but true to form, she conquered without complaint. She was well known for her loving hospitality and making everyone she met feel at ease. Notorious for her accuracy, she could thwack you across the room with her slipper if you were misbehaving. Many have been the recipient of “the slipper!” Favorite memories include her singing English ditties at family gatherings. She delighted in belonging to her Pool Group and participated in many activities with them, making lifelong friends. She was a brilliant woman who was an avid reader. She had beautiful calligraphy-style handwriting and was often asked to pen certificates and documents. Never needing to drive in England, she bravely got her driver’s license while in her 50’s. Dawn retained her lovely sense of humor to the end. She was the kindest, most selfless person who always put everyone else first. She was the Mom everyone wanted and the friend everyone loved. She will be missed by many.
Dawn is survived by her daughter Sheri (Stuart) Avery, sons Mitchell Crist (Heidi), and Marvin Crist (Cindy); grandchildren Nathan and Brandon Avery, Rachelle Potts, Justin & Teah Crist and Ryan Crist; Great-grandchildren Cayden Avery & Vienna Potts; Niece Kim Daniel, nephews Marc & Glenn Daniel, and her numerous pool group friends. It has been a special gift to have had her in our lives.
A private funeral will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Dawn's name to your favorite charity.