Dorothy “Dawn” McQuaid Felthousen, age 92, passed away peacefully surrounded by family members in her Southern Shores, NC home on June 14, 2022.
Dawn was born and raised in Buffalo, NY and graduated from Mount St. Mary’s Academy after serving as her senior class President. She then spent 53 years married to her late husband, Charles E. Felthousen, a decorated United States Navy Commander. A dedicated mother of 6 children, Dawn made continuous sacrifices to raise her family while simultaneously serving our country as a supportive military spouse.
In the late 1960’s, the Navy relocated Charlie and Dawn to Virginia Beach, VA where all 6 children graduated from Frank W. Cox High School before attending college. All of her children competed on various athletic teams with notable successes in wrestling and field hockey. Dawn was often recognized as the “team mom” because she helped in raising numerous other student athletes by extending her time, motherly touch and encouragement.
In 1985, Dawn and Charlie retired to the Outer Banks of NC where they met balance and a well-earned relaxing lifestyle. These years were filled with memorable beach days and weekly rounds of golf at Duck Woods Country Club. Dawn also enjoyed quilting, puzzling, and a day at the movies. She remained a devout member of the Catholic Church until her passing, worshiping our Lord faithfully at Holy Redeemer by the Sea Catholic Church.
She has 2 surviving brothers, Ronnie and Peter, and is predeceased by siblings, Claudia (Doyle), JoAnn (Moore), and Jim. Her enthusiasm for life and all things good remains with her surviving children: Greg, Gary, Glenn, Kim (Sendzik), and Kris. We find peace in knowing Dawn is finally reunited with her loving son, Kurt, who passed in 1988. Our mother’s legacy of love continues through her 17 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren.
Dawn was everything to many, as she always gave her full self to those that were lucky enough to know her. She was known as the best hostess to her friends, family, and all guests that walked within her home. She will be remembered for her specialty ice cream sodas, love of chocolate, and affinity for soaking up the sun. Her contribution to the world is immeasurable and she will forever be missed.
The family wishes to express its utmost gratitude to the staff at Adoration Hospice, Manteo, NC for the care and compassion provided to Dawn alongside her children over the last 6 months. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory can be made to the Peter Decker Children’s Charity, and/or to a First Tee Golf Program in your local community.
A celebration Mass of the Resurrection will be held July 15, 2022 at 11am at Holy Redeemer By-the-Sea Catholic Church, Kitty Hawk, NC with reception to follow. A private interment will be held July 18, 2022 at 12pm at Princess Anne Memorial Park, Virginia Beach, VA.
Keep smiling Dawn, as you have upon us, always!
Twiford Funeral Homes, Outer Banks is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.TwifordFH.com.