Birth date: Oct 22, 1947 Death date: Sep 19, 2025
Nashville’s Native Son, Jay Thomas Dawson, passed away peacefully in the early hours of Friday, September 19, 2025. During a professional music career spanning almost 60 years, the award-winning Conductor, Composer, Arranger and Read Obituary
We so treasured Jay as a friend over the years and especially loved when he visited us in Maryland while on a guest conductor visit to our county school system. Here he is, in action with the kids. And here is, in action at the crab house! Love you Jay! Sonja and John Sutton
In a city of amazing musicians, Jay was a standout. I loved to hear him play and loved to work with him for several years when his bagpipe arrangements werethe highlight of our Church’s Christmas program. What a lovely man. Our family extends our deepest sympathy to Jay’s family. May God bless and comfort you.
Had the honor to stay with Jay and Cindy while adjudicating Contest of Champions. Jay was so gracious to share their home. We had a blast that weekend! Rest in peace.
Rob James
So sorry to hear about the passing of Jay. Although I only knew him for a small portion of his life his impact will be forever life changing for me. How do you thank someone who has given you the gift of music?
Jay introduced me to the pipes thru my church and under his instruction provided me and many others a glimpse of a world I never would have otherwise seen.
I will always think of him and give him a quick thought of thanks when I play. I often play his original tune “Highland Processional” and it has become one of my favorites.
I have heard it said that “ To live in the hearts we leave behind is not to die” and in this thought Jay will live long into the future in many hearts.
“We all die. The goal isn’t to live forever, the goal is to create something that will.” Please take comfort in the fact that Jay has done this in so many ways and for so many people. He will continue to be a part of our lives and the lives of our students in the future. a grateful piper, Tom Wilhoite
