Holliann Kanatzar Dawson

Holliann Kanatzar Dawson was born on March 10, 1948, at MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa, Florida. She entered the arms of her Lord and Savior on January 19, 2026. She died of natural causes.

She is survived by her sister, Dee Baldwin, and her sister-in-law, Bonnie Kanatzar. She leaves behind her two daughters, Deralee Dawson Bowlin and her husband Ford, and Lissa Dawson Keyser and her husband Frank. Holliann was a proud grandmother to Holli Curry, Megan Brixius, Joe Keyser, and Jett Bowlin. She was also blessed with four great-grandchildren, Ada Curry, Kira Curry, Dawsyn Curry, and Rhett Brixius, who brought her immeasurable joy.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Hobart and Gloria Kanatzar, and her brother, Doug.

Holliann spent most of her adult life in San Antonio, Texas, where she built a community of cherished friends who loved her deeply. Her faith was the foundation of her life; she devoted herself wholeheartedly to her Lord and Savior and lived each day with a servant’s heart.

She opened her home to everyone, no one was ever a stranger. Many of her daughters’ way-ward friends found comfort, acceptance, and a second family under her roof. Her grandchildren will forever remember her singing, “A bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck,” and her sweet, familiar reminder: “Who loves you.” One of her favorite pastimes was doing jigsaw puzzles with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, sharing quiet moments that became treasured memories.

She was a sweet, generous, and loving soul, yet anyone who ever sat across from her at a card table knew she had a competitive streak. Strategic, clever, and maybe just a little too lucky, she kept everyone laughing with her playful spirit and determination to win.

Above all, Holliann adored her family. She traveled across the country whenever she could to support her grandchildren, showing up for their milestones, celebrations, and everyday moments. During the past five years, she made her home in San Antonio, Florida, yes, Florida, where she spent the remainder of her days cherishing her 4 great-grandkids, who were the light of her life.

In accordance with their wishes will be held. A celebration will be planned for a future date in the Great State of Texas.

Holliann was a joy to all who knew her. Her legacy of faith, love, humor, and devotion will continue to shine brightly through the family she cherished.

In lieu of the flowers or planting trees, the family asks that donations be made to Moffitt Cancer Center at the link below.