Dawn M. Lafetra

We mournfully announce the passing of our beautiful Dawn Marie LaFetra, 43, of Little Egg Harbor, NJ. While surrounded by the love and comfort of her family and beloved friends, Dawn passed on the morning of December 7, 2022 after her fearless and hard fought battle with cancer. 

It was evident at the early age of three that Dawn had a natural gift. She was decked out in her Christmas outfit, clutching her toddler microphone belting out Joan Jett’s- I Love Rock n’ Roll, it was Christmas time, and as her family watched, they together agreed, that without a doubt, Dawn could sing. Growing up and with a passion for theater and music, Dawn would continue to sing at every given opportunity as a member of her high school choir, The Shansons and the Jersey Kids Starmakers; she would also go on to compete in numerous singing competitions, one landing her the opportunity to open up for country music star Lee Brice at Long Beach Islands Joe Pops. Throughout her years, Dawn also had the pleasure of singing with many popular local bands, building strong friendships, all the while doing what she loved most, singing. 

Dawn also had the effortless ability to bring everyone together. Her personality was incredibly strong, positive and encompassing. She would do anything for anyone, without hesitation. These values were reflected in her places of work as well as her roles within the community. Up until the time of Dawn’s passing she was an active member of Station 71 West Tuckerton Fire Dept. Auxiliary, past President of the Auxiliary and honored as a Life Member. Dawn was also an active member of the Tuckerton Red Men Pohatcong Tribe 61 Pocohontas where she was the Great Prophetess for New Jersey (Past Great Pocahontas) as well as past Pocahontas of the Tuckerton Red Men Lodge. Within these roles Dawn would organize and help to establish fundraisers that would benefit the local community. 

Dawn was also an avid sports fan and you could find her on Sundays cheering on her favorite NASCAR driver Joey Logano as well as rooting for her beloved Philadelphia Eagles. She also most recently became a big Red Sox fan. She loved spending time with family doing anything from boating, fishing, camping to just hanging out playing games together. With all that Dawn enjoyed, her most treasured role was being an Aunt. 

Dawn’s life was an example of a life lived without judgement. She viewed everyone as equal and would always find the best in an individual. This was reflected in the support she had in life, her family, her friends and most recently during her battle. Everyone blessed to have known Dawn will share in these values and continue to embrace them in her honor. The music plays on; her voice carried in our hearts. 

Dawn is survived by her husband Gary LaFetra of Little Egg Harbor, as well as her parents Kim and Dave Flannery, Grandmother Connie Nylander, siblings Kelly Campbell and husband Justin Campbell, Abby Flannery, and Amy Klick and family. Godparents Chuck Nylander, Lauren Dean and Tammy Falco, mother-in-law Penny LaFetra, sister-in-law Katie Samuel and her husband John Samuel, nephew Van Campbell, niece Remi Campbell, and nephew Mason Samuel as well as many loving aunts, uncles, cousins and dear friends. In addition, Dawn is survived by her pets Mabel, Henry and Sammy whom she loved dearly. She was preceded in death by her grandfather Charles Nylander, grandparents John and Emily Flannery, grandparents Les and Shirley Whealton and father-in-law Gary LaFetra. 

Services will be held Monday, December 12, 2022 4:00 PM-8:00 PM at Maxwell Funeral Home, 160 Mathistown Road Little Egg Harbor, NJ 08087. 

In lieu of flowers the family asks for a gift of charity or a donation to: 

Tuckerton Red Men Lodge Pohatcong #61/Pocohontas, 145 W. Main St., Tuckerton, NJ 08087 or West Tuckerton Fire Dept., Station 71, 505 US-9, Little Egg Harbor Twp, NJ 08087