Tayvon Michael Dawson was born on January 30, 1998, in Columbia, SC. He attended Dinwiddie High School in Dinwiddie, VA. However, he graduated with pride from Ellison High School in Killeen, TX, as part of the Class of 2016.

Driven by his passion for Sociology and Kinesiology, Tayvon began his collegiate journey at Jarvis Christian University in Hawkins, TX, later transferring to Virginia State University in Petersburg, VA. He eventually discovered a deep interest in HVAC repair and enrolled at Fortis College in Richmond, VA, with a focus on becoming a certified HVAC Technician.

Tayvon was a devoted son, brother, teammate, and friend. He is survived by his loving parents, Qurell (Joy) and Jimmie (Fillie) Fedrick; biological father, Benjamin Dawson, Jr.; older brother, Jordan Dawson; baby brother, Jayden Fedrick whom he lovingly called "Lad"; and his baby sister, Kennedy "The Princess" Fedrick, whom he affectionately called "Kenneth."

His grandfathers include Calvin Colbert, Sr. (Liz) of Pensacola, FL; Jimmy Fedrick of Augusta, GA and Benjamin Dawson, Sr. of Selma, AL. His grandmothers include Gail Colbert of Orangeburg, SC, and Geraldine Futrell (Jose) of Fort Walton Beach, FL.

His uncles include Calvin Colbert, Jr. (Renee) of Woodbridge, VA, Stan Dawson of Summerville, SC, Marcus Dawson (Maggie) and Deiontray Dawson, both of Fort Walton Beach, FL, Xavier Fedrick of Tampa, FL and Antwon Starling and Louis Starling, Jr. both of Philadelphia, PA.

His aunts include Lakadrain Dawson of Fort Walton Beach, FL, Sheneida Merriweather of Columbia, SC and Niakima Devine of Philadelphia, PA.

His cousins include Miles Colbert, Mariah Colbert, and Mikayla Colbert all of Columbia, SC, Koby Dawson and Amar'e Dawson both of Summerville, SC; and Kaylnn Fedrick of Tampa, FL.

He also leaves behind many other cherished aunts, uncles, cousins, family members, and friends.

Tayvon was preceded in death by his grandmother, Joyce Fedrick, and his uncle, Anton Starling.

Reflections of Tayvon M. Dawson

Tayvon, the legendary outfielder (and sometimes pitcher) since the age of eight, has gracefully slid his way into Heaven — probably still wearing his signature #14 or #22 jerseys, the only numbers he'd rocked since middle school.

Athleticism was in his DNA. Whether on the baseball diamond, at his gaming battle station (Tags: Saberfangz and YoungTavin ), on the basketball court, or leading the Golden Assassins dodgeball team, he played with unmatched passion and skill. Tayvon didn't just play — he dominated. He poured nearly two decades of his heart into the game, playing in multiple baseball and softball leagues, inspiring teammates and opponents alike with his energy, talent, and perfectly timed motivational one-liners.

Tayvon had two goals every time he stepped into the batter's box: hit a home run… or hit a grand slam. There was no in-between. Go big or go home — and preferably, go home with all the bases loaded.

Off the field, Tayvon was just as legendary. He loved his job at James River as an HVAC Technician and was actively working toward earning his Journeyman License. He had a way of making work not just productive, but fun — his presence made every day brighter for those around him.

Tayvon deeply loved his family and made a point to stay connected. No matter how busy life got, he regularly visited his mom's house — not just out of routine, but out of love. Those visits often turned into laughter-filled evenings, especially during weekly game nights, where his competitive spirit and hilarious commentary stole the show. Whether he won or lost, Tayvon made sure everyone had a good time — because being together mattered most to him.

He had a gift for turning ordinary moments into celebrations, lifting spirits with his humor, wisdom, and radiant energy. Wise beyond his years and financially savvy, he made smart moves and shared his light freely. His humor, kindness, and unforgettable presence made the world a better place.

Tayvon was loved by so many — teammates, coworkers, friends, and family — each of whom gave him unique nicknames along the way. His family affectionately called him Tay Tay and Total Mass Destruction (TMD) ; his baseball family knew him as Mr. Bat Flip, Tay, Tavin, Double Deuce, Deuce Deuce, T, TD, and Tavy Boy ; his James River family jokingly called him Tavin ; and his friends lovingly called him Tay .

He was the kind of person who could lift spirits with a quote or a laugh. Facing adversity? He'd shrug and say, "Regardless, we move." Feeling tired in the batter's box? "100% swing all the time." And when life just did its thing, you'd hear, "It be how it do, for real," followed by the classic, "It be what it be."

Though Tayvon has left the world, his legacy — both hilarious and heartfelt — will live on in every game played, every base stolen, and every inside joke that makes us laugh when we need it most.

Tayvon laced up one final time and took his place on the highest team of all — Heaven's all-star roster — where peace and love never end.

Rest in peace, Tayvon. Forever our MVP — #14, #22, and one of a kind.

Services will be held 1:00 P.M., Friday, August 29, 2025, at Destination Church, 5258 Oaklawn Boulevard, Hopewell, VA. The interment to follow at Washington Memorial Park.

A wake will be held from 6:00 PM until 8:00 P.M., Thursday, August 28, 2025, at the funeral establishment.

Following the interment, the family invites relatives and friends to join them for a period of food and fellowship at The Springs Recreation Center, 302 Spring Avenue, Highland Springs, VA. All are encouraged to come and tell stories about our beloved Tayvon.

J.M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, watch the funeral services live online at www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com.