Linda Dawn Durrance Beynon

Linda Dawn Durrance Beynon December 11, 1948 – June 12, 2025 Linda Dawn Durrance Beynon, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, teacher, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 12, 2025, at the age of 76. Born December 11, 1948, in Bartow, Florida, Dawn was the daughter of W. Ralph and Margaret Lewis Durrance of Fort Meade. From the start, her life was rooted deeply in the small-town charm and warmth of Fort Meade, where she attended local schools and graduated in June of 1966. She later earned her Bachelor of Arts in Education in March of 1972 from the University of South Florida, preparing for a life of dedication to family and community. Dawn was a teacher and homemaker, giving of herself in both roles with patience, pride, and purpose. She taught business at Kathleen High School in Lakeland and later second grade at Lewis Elementary in her hometown—instilling knowledge, confidence, and kindness in the many students whose lives she touched. But it was in the home where she truly shined, raising her children with steady guidance, a soft heart, and endless devotion. A lifelong member of the First United Methodist Church of Fort Meade, Dawn’s faith was a steady anchor throughout her life. Her community knew her as a gracious host and a consummate Southern lady—her events, from bridal showers to birthday luncheons, were things of beauty, filled with warmth, laughter, and details only Dawn could dream up. She adored her family and poured herself into the lives of those she loved. Dawn was the heart of many cherished family traditions—fishing trips to Englewood, hunting in South Carolina, and countless moments filled with good food and spirited conversation. She was known for her giving spirit, her sharp wit, and her signature elegance—always dressed to the nines, no matter the occasion. Dawn is survived by her devoted husband, Howard Carlisle Beynon, Sr.; her children, Howard Carlisle (H.C.) Beynon, Jr. and his wife Misty Gale Beynon, and Emily Jane Beynon Traviesa and her husband David Brawner Traviesa; her treasured grandchildren, Allison Kate Beynon, Katie Lyn Beynon, Easton Brawner Traviesa, and Luke Carlisle Traviesa; and her loving sister, Stephanie Jane Durrance Billings. Her presence filled a room, and her absence leaves a space that cannot be replaced. She was loved deeply and will be remembered always—for her strength, her sparkle, and the fierce love she gave to all who knew her. A service to celebrate Dawn’s life will be held on June 19, 2025, at First United Methodist Church in Fort Meade, Florida. The family will receive friends from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m., followed by a Celebration of Life service from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Condolences to family at www.whiddenmcleanfuneralhome.com