Jane Wilson Dawkins, 72 of South Pittsburg was called home to be with the Lord on Sunday, September 21.
Jane is survived by her son Tyler Dawkins (Mary Katherine), her pride and joy, granddaughter Sophie, sister-in-law Samantha Wilson and niece Taffy Wilson.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 49 years Gary Dawkins, her parents Joe Ray and Juanita Brown Wilson, and brother Mickey Wilson.
Born on August 28, 1953 in South Pittsburg, Jane graduated from South Pittsburg High School and went on to study psychology at the University of Tennessee in Chattanooga. Jane began in social work but then became an educator and taught school for over 16 years in the Marion County School system. While teaching, she earned her master’s degree in education from Tribeca. She also served as assistant principal at her alma mater. She then went on to serve as the principal of the alternative school for Marion County. Being the intelligent, talented, and motivated woman she was, Jane then became the owner/operator of two businesses, Dawkins Southern Insurance for more than 25 years and Miss Jane’s Florist and Gifts. Jane was also very involved in her community, where she served as a Marion County Commissioner and other local offices. Her proudest professional accomplishment was becoming the first female mayor of South Pittsburg. She always felt a calling to be involved in politics. She felt it helped her champion the underdog and to help make her hometown a better place.
Jane was a faithful Christian her entire life and was a member of the Kimball Church of Christ.
Jane, also well known as “Miss Jane” was a beloved musician, whose talent and passion for music touched the hearts of many. She shared her love for music everywhere she went. While teaching, she was the director of the “Harmony Singers”. While mayor of South Pittsburg, she also led the South Pittsburg Community Chorus. Her favorite pastime in later years was playing piano for fellow residents of the Rosewood at Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia.
Miss Jane enjoyed life, whether it was being with family and friends, watching Tennessee football, listening to Elvis, deep sea fishing, or eating at her favorite restaurants.
Jane’s legacy is one of unyielding kindness and generosity. Her greatest joys and accomplishments were the love of her husband, the gift of being a mom to Tyler, and being “Big Mama” to Sophie Grace.
Funeral services were held on Wednesday, September 24 at 1 p.m. at the South Pittsburg Chapel of Rogers Funeral Home, with Minister Billy Watkins and Reverend Bruce Potter who officiated.
Mrs. Jane was laid to rest with her beloved husband Gary Dawkins at Sequatchie Valley Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Jasper.
Visitation was also hosted on Wednesday, September 24 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the South Pittsburg Chapel, prior to the funeral service being held.
Pallbearers were Larry Dempsey, Charlie Everett, Butch Witcher, Scott Hawkins, Berry Fraley and Zach Warren.
Arrangements were entrusted to Rogers Funeral Home, South Pittsburg Chapel, 400 Laurel Ave, South Pittsburg, Tennessee 37380 (423) 423-837-7176.
The Marion Tribune – September 25, 2025