Craig Gayden Dawson, 67, died on Sunday, December 12, 2021. He was predeceased by his parents, William Thomas and Gretchen Gayden Dawson.

Craig grew up in Columbia and graduated from AC Flora High School and the University of South Carolina. He loved being a Gamecock and being a member of Sigma Nu Fraternity where he made many life long friends. After College, Craig joined his family's business, Central Carolina Distributors, where he had a successful career in the automotive industry. This included serving on the Advisory Board for the General Motors Aftermarket Division. In 2008, he was appointed by President George W. Bush to head the Southeastern General Services Administration.

Craig enjoyed hunting, traveling and spending time at his family's home on Lake Murray. He was a former member of The Palmetto Club, Forest Lake Country Club, The Camellia Ball and The Caprician Club.

He is survived by his two daughters: Martha Jayne Dawson, Columbia, SC and Catherine Gayden Dawson, New York, NY; brothers, Dr. William T. Dawson (Jutta) and Katon E. Dawson (Candy); and a sister, Gretchen G. Dawson; along with several nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will held Thursday, December 23rd, at Elmwood Cemetery at 12 o'clock. The family will greet friends after the service. Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family.

In lieu of flowers, the family request that memorials be made to Trenholm Road United Methodist Church Pastor's Discretionary Fund, 3401 Trenholm Rd, Columbia, SC 29204.