On December 29, 1956, a beautiful baby boy was born to Clartine Dawson and William Woodall Sr. in Omaha, Nebraska. They named their precious son Leo Lynn Dawson. At an early age, Leo accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior and was baptized at St. Matthews Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor McKinley Rice.

On July 20, 2026, with deep sorrow, Leo departed this earthly life and entered his heavenly home, where there is no more pain, sickness, or suffering.

Affectionately known as "Big Hat," Leo was loved by family, friends, and everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him. He enjoyed working on cars in his younger years and could tinker with just about anything mechanical. Leo was a man of few words. If you managed to get more than thirty words out of him during the week, you considered yourself lucky.

On warm summer days, you could usually find Leo sitting beneath the shade tree at his home on Osage, surrounded by his buddies, enjoying life just the way he wanted and doing what made him happiest.

After losing his home to a house fire, Leo moved in with his son and his family. If you happened to pass by on 13th Street, chances where you'd find him sitting on the front porch. As you drove by, he'd call out, "You ain't gonna get out," which simply meant, "Come on, pull up a chair and stay awhile."

Leo had a generous heart and was always willing to help others. Whether someone needed a place to stay for a night, a meal, or simply a helping hand, Leo never hesitated to lend support. He would often say, "I don't have much, but you're welcome to what I do have."

On the weekends, if you were looking for a good laugh, Leo was the one to find. He was a natural comedian. It was often said that if you were out on a Saturday night and made your way to the dance floor, sooner or later you'd spot "Big Hat." You might think you needed to run or duck when you heard those loud clapping hands, only to realize it was just Big Hat having the time of his life.

Leo never met a stranger. Everyone was welcomed with open arms. He was loved by many and treasured countless friendships. Jimmy Tate was a lifelong friend since childhood. Their friendship was one built on loyalty, compassion, and brotherhood.

Leo was united in marriage to Betty Parker, and to this union three children were born: Cortisha Parker, Crystal Parker, and Christopher Parker.

Leo was preceded in death by his loving and devoted wife, Betty Parker Dawson; his beloved mother, Clartine Dawson; his cherished grandmother, Hallie (Bodry) Dawson; and his father, William Woodall Sr.

He leaves to cherish his precious memory his children: Sandra (Timothy) Collins of Norman, Oklahoma; Cortisha (Kuenta) Parker Braswell, Crystal Parker, and Christopher (Nicole) Parker, all of Okmulgee, Oklahoma.

He is also survived by six siblings: William (Rubie) Kegler of Tennessee; Michael Bridgeman of Nebraska; Wanda (Jimmy) Tate, Lindola (Terrence) Hutton, and Tyrone Dawson, all of Okmulgee, Oklahoma; and Craig (Diane) Hayes of Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Leo also leaves to cherish his memory three stepchildren: Coretta Parker of Ontario, California; Shakeitha (James) Smith Jr. of Prague, Oklahoma; and Jemond (Summer) Parker of Enid, Oklahoma.

His legacy continues through 14 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory.

Though our hearts are heavy with sorrow, we rejoice in celebrating a life well lived. Leo's kindness, generosity, laughter, and unforgettable spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. His memory reminds us that a warm smile, a welcoming heart, and a little laughter can leave a lasting legacy.

"Well done, good and faithful servant... Enter into the joy of your Lord."

Matthew 25:23

A Celebration of Life is scheduled Saturday, August 1, 2026, 11:00 a.m., St. Matthew Baptist Church, 1001 E. Chicago, Okmulgee, OK; with Pastor McKinley Rice, delivering the eulogy. Interment will follow in Hoardsville Cemetery, Henryetta, OK.

Visitation is scheduled Friday, 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at House of Winn-Okmulgee

The family has been cared for by House of Winn-Okmulgee