LEPANTO, AR — The small, close-knit community of Lepanto, Arkansas, is in mourning after the tragic death of Stetson Ray Dawson, a beloved one-year-old boy who passed away on Friday, October 3, 2025. Stetson was the cherished son of Casey Diane Dawson and James Dawson, a dedicated firefighter with the Lepanto Fire and Rescue. His untimely death has left his family, friends, and the entire community devastated as they come to terms with the loss of such a bright and loving child.

Heartbreaking News Delivered to Family

In a deeply emotional post shared on social media, Stetson’s mother, Casey Diane, expressed the overwhelming pain and heartache the family felt as doctors delivered the tragic news that their son’s condition was beyond hope. “James and I need every prayer we can get right now,” she wrote. “The doctor just told us that there is nothing else they can do for our baby boy. He’s not going to make it. God give us strength, please.”

Later that evening, Stetson tragically passed away at 10:08 p.m., and Casey Diane shared this final moment, asking for support and prayers: “Our sweet baby boy went to be with Jesus tonight at 10:08. Please pray for us as we navigate the days ahead. We need comfort and strength.”

Community and Fire Department Show Solidarity

The Lepanto Fire and Rescue Department was quick to express their heartfelt condolences to the Dawson family. The department, which includes Stetson’s father, James Dawson, released a statement that echoed the deep sorrow felt by the entire community: “Our hearts go out to one of our firemen and LFD Firefly. We are suffering the great loss of their youngest son, Stetson Dawson. We want to send our deepest condolences and support for the Dawson family. Please keep this family in your thoughts and prayers for love and strength in the days ahead.”

The message of support from the fire department reflects the close bond within the Lepanto community, where neighbors and local first responders share a sense of camaraderie that extends far beyond work, with James Dawson being a well-known and well-loved figure in the area.

Tributes Pour in for Stetson

As the news of Stetson’s passing spread, friends, family, and members of the Lepanto community flooded social media with heartfelt tributes. Many shared stories of the smiling, joyful boy who had brought so much light into the world in his short time. Though Stetson was young, his vibrant spirit left an undeniable impact on everyone who met him.

In one emotional tribute, Casey Diane shared her grief: “Oh my sweet baby boy. I love you so much. I miss you so much. I miss your smile, your wave, your loves, your yelling. I could throw up with how much pain I feel. God, please help me get through this. My sweet Stetson Ray. I wish I had you here with me.”

Her words echo the immense pain of losing a child, a pain shared by countless parents who have experienced the unimaginable heartbreak of outliving their own children. Stetson Ray Dawson will be remembered for the happiness he brought into the lives of everyone around him, even though his time here was far too brief.

A Community United in Grief and Support

As the Dawson family faces the unimaginable pain of losing their youngest child, the Lepanto community has rallied together in full support. The loss of a child is a tragedy that no parent should ever have to endure, but in times like these, the strength of community is more important than ever. Neighbors, friends, and even strangers have come forward to offer prayers, emotional support, and financial donations to help the Dawson family during this incredibly difficult time.

The Lepanto community, known for its tight-knit relationships, has poured its love and support into the Dawson family, providing them with the comfort they need to face the days ahead. From donations to prayers, the people of Lepanto have shown just how strong and compassionate small-town communities can be in times of crisis.

Funeral Arrangements and Ongoing Support

In light of the family’s sorrow, funeral arrangements for Stetson Ray Dawson are expected to be announced in the coming days. As the family works through the overwhelming emotional and logistical burdens of this loss, the Lepanto community continues to offer help and support.

Those who wish to honor Stetson’s memory are encouraged to stay connected to the Dawson family through online tributes or by contributing to charitable causes that can help support the family as they navigate this difficult time. Though no official memorial has been announced yet, the community is already preparing to come together to celebrate the life of a young boy who touched so many hearts.

A Lasting Impact on the Community

Although Stetson’s time on earth was brief, his impact on the community and his family will be felt forever. The Dawson family has shown incredible strength in the face of unimaginable loss, and the Lepanto community will continue to support them as they grieve. Stetson’s memory will live on in the hearts of all those who knew him and in the many tributes that have already poured in since his passing.

This tragic loss serves as a reminder of how precious life is, especially the lives of young children. The outpouring of support for the Dawson family serves as a testament to the strength of human compassion, and how a community can come together to help heal the wounds of unimaginable grief.

Conclusion: The Memory of Stetson Ray Dawson

The heartbreaking death of Stetson Ray Dawson, a one-year-old boy from Lepanto, has left a family, a community, and the world with a profound sense of loss. The sorrow felt by his family, especially his parents, Casey Diane and James Dawson, is something no parent should ever have to experience. Yet, through this tragedy, Lepanto has shown just how strong and supportive a community can be in the face of overwhelming grief.

As the family prepares to lay Stetson Ray Dawson to rest, the Lepanto community will continue to offer love, support, and comfort. Stetson’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, and his legacy of joy and laughter will never be forgotten.

The Dawson family has reminded us all of the preciousness of life and the importance of cherishing every moment. As they continue to mourn their loss, they also know that the love of their community will help them heal, step by painful step. The Lepanto community has shown that even in the face of tragedy, we can come together to support those who need it most.