Jesse William Dawes Jr., affectionately known as “Buddy,” was born on August 19, 1958, in Potosi, Missouri, a son of the late Jesse Dawes Sr. and Leoeta (Blair) Dawes. Buddy passed away peacefully on Monday, August 31, 2026, at Mercy Hospital Jefferson, at the age of 68.

Buddy enjoyed many of the simple pleasures in life. He loved hunting and fishing and was an avid mushroom hunter. He was a devoted Chevy fan and was especially proud of his two tone, red and white 1995 Chevrolet truck. Buddy cherished spending time with his family and enjoyed joking and picking with his friends. He had a great sense of humor. He also loved his horse, Cappy, and his goat, Joe. In years past, Buddy attended Caledonia Assembly of God. Buddy worked for many years at Dobbs Tire in High Ridge, Missouri, where he served at a manager. 

Buddy will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his brother and sister-in-law, Charles “Chuck” and Donna Dawes of Bismarck; as well as his nieces, nephews, and cousins. He will also be remembered by his dear friends, Joe and Pam Teifenauer; David and Pam Frakes; Tom Dalton; Ray Politte; and Rhonda Delashmit.

In addition to his parents, Buddy was preceded in death by six siblings: Kenny Dawes, Michael Dawes, Danny Dawes, Irma Dawes Bingaman, Polly Boyer, and Betty Jellinek; his special aunt, Nellie Blair; and his beloved puppy, Poncho.

Friends are invited to join the family for visitation on Friday, September 4, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. until the time of his funeral service at 1:00 p.m. at DeClue Funeral Home in Potosi. Pastor Carol Brown will officiate the service. Additionally, Buddy will receive full military funeral honors presented by the United States Army. 

Funeral arrangements were respectfully entrusted to the care and direction of DeClue Funeral Home, Potosi.