Dawson Thomas Obituary, Death – Ohio Teen Remembered for Adventurous Spirit at 16
Dawson C. Thomas, 16, passed away on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at Wilson Health in Sidney, Ohio, leaving behind family, friends, classmates and loved ones who will remember him for his kindness, humor and adventurous personality.
Early Life and Family
Dawson was born on January 21, 2010, to Christen (Halberstadt) King and Caleb M. Thomas.
He is survived by his mother and stepfather, Christen and T.J. King of Bellefontaine, and his father, Caleb M. Thomas of Anna. He is also survived by his sister, Hailey (Brian) Ferrell; brothers Sawyer Thomas and Foster King; and sisters Ciara (Josh) Hayden and Kiersten (Gabe) Wilcox.
His surviving family also includes maternal grandparents Gail (Jack Wellmerling) Wilges and Jerry (Mary) Halberstadt; maternal great-grandmother Judy Meyer; maternal great-grandparents James (Jane) Halberstadt and Jeanne Miller; paternal grandmother Martha Thomas; and paternal great-grandparents Walter (Patsy) Mauer and Mary (Howard) Thomas.
Dawson was preceded in death by his sister, Jade Kennedy Thomas, who died at age 2, and infant brother M.J. Thomas, both in 2008. He was also preceded in death by his grandfather, John Thomas, and great-grandfather, Tom Meyer.
Remembering Dawson Thomas
Dawson was described as a thrill seeker who enjoyed gaming, snowboarding and rollercoasters. Gaming with his friends was among his favorite pastimes, with friendly competition often creating plenty of laughter and memories.
He also enjoyed outdoor activities, including kayaking, camping and spending time in the woods with friends and family. His adventurous nature extended to his future ambitions, as he dreamed of becoming a pilot and one day soaring through the skies.
Those who knew Dawson remembered him as kind, sensitive and loyal. His sense of humor and ability to make people laugh brought warmth to the lives of those around him.
Dawson was a junior at Jackson Center High School and was also enrolled in the Electrical Trades program at Upper Valley Career Center.
Organ Donor
Dawson was also an organ donor. Through that decision, he leaves behind a lasting impact that may continue through the lives of others even after his death.
Funeral and Visitation
Funeral services for Dawson Thomas will be held at noon on Friday, October 2, 2026, at the Jackson Center Family Life Center, 310 Davis St., Jackson Center, Ohio 45334. Deacon Terry Coleman will officiate.
Visitation will take place from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday, October 1, and again one hour before the funeral service on Friday, both at the Jackson Center Family Life Center.
Burial will be private and will take place at St. Lawrence Church Cemetery in Rhine at a later date.
Dawson will be remembered by his family and friends for his adventurous spirit, loyalty, kindness and the laughter he brought into their lives. His memory will remain with those who knew and loved him.