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09/29/2023 04:48 PM

Dawn Jara (Dr. Dawn)


“Look at the stars. Look how they shine for you and everything you do.”

Dawn Jara (Dr. Dawn) passed away peacefully at home on Sept. 14, surrounded by her family, after a courageous and tenacious battle with colon cancer. This tenacity, love for life, and love of family served her well as she bravely fought for more time to do the things and be with the people she loved. Dawn was born the eldest child of Craig and Donna Browell of Northford.

She was married to Jose Jara of Cuenca, Ecuador, and loving mother to Javier and Nicolas Jara. She is survived by countless family members and friends.

Dawn graduated from Southern Connecticut State University in 2007 with a degree in public health, but later found her passion in teaching special education, earning her master’s degree from Southern and ultimately earning her doctoral degree from North Central University. She taught for 16 years at Fairfield’s Warde High School as both a special education teacher and department liaison. Dawn was a well-loved and respected educator, integral in the lives of many students and their educational successes. Outside of the classroom, Dawn could most often be found at a soccer field, watching her two boys shine. An avid lover of the game, Dawn enjoyed sharing this passion with her boys and taking them to games whenever possible. Hot fudge brownie sundaes with chocolate marshmallow ice cream, relaxing on the beach, and spending time with her family, including her nieces and nephews, were all a big part of the life she loved so much. She loved a good murder mystery or spending time outdoors. Most of her adventures ended with delicious food like Thai drunken noodles, Spanish pupusas, or her uncle’s tomato sauce.

The visiting hours were on Sept. 25 at The Havens Family North Haven Funeral Home, 36 Washington Avenue, with a service directly after. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a memorial account for her boys. Venmo @JaraBoysFund.

“The stars shine a little brighter today with you among them.”

www.northhavenfuneral.com.