The Dawson Funeral Home was established in 1934 by the late Frank A. Dawson upon the death of his predecessor, E.G. Sturgis. Originally located at 122 West Fifth Street Mr. Dawson acquired the former Monroe Patterson home at 215 West Fifth Street in 1939. Transformations over the years have developed the facility into a state-of-the-art funeral home. In 1979, the former Phyllis Crook residence was purchased and connected to the funeral home. A large chapel was added, along with additional parlor space and entrances. The new expansion allows for smoother traffic flow and accommodations for both large and small funeral services. In 1989, the firm opened a family center across the street from the funeral home. The Family Center is open to post-funeral gatherings, private parties and business conferences. It features two dining rooms, meeting rooms and also houses the Dawson Funeral Home pre-arrangement office. Most recently, the company has renovated the original Sturgis Funeral Home into a bed and breakfast. Known now as the Sturgis House, the building has six bedrooms, an equal number of baths, along with a dining room, kitchen and parlor. Families being served by the Dawson Funeral Home are given special consideration on their room rates.