Dawnna G. Black passed away peacefully in her home on Orr’s Island, Maine, on Jan. 5, 2026. She was born on Dec. 2, 1938, in Salt Lake City, Utah, as Dawnna G. Andreasen.
She was the daughter of an Air Force serviceman whose career took the family across the world during her youth. Dawnna spent some of those years in England, where she attended school at Bushy Park in London and later graduated from St. Francis College in Letchworth. It was in Bedford, England, that she met Brian Black, marking the beginning of a love that would carry them through a lifetime.
After her father was stationed at Topsham Blockhouse, Naval Air Station Brunswick, Dawnna and Brian settled in their forever home on Orr’s Island, Maine, in 1961. There, she built a life defined by selflessness and service, with a constant willingness to help others.
Dawnna began her professional career as a writer, working for the Brunswick Times Record and The Associated Press. Her work reflected her thoroughness and a commitment to doing things well — qualities that carried through all that she did.
Her dedication to Harpswell took many forms. She worked at Harpswell Islands School, later serving the town as office manager. She also ran the town’s welfare services, offering support and guidance to those in need. She was a certified water safety instructor, teaching swimming lessons to generations of local children. Many in the community can say Dawnna Black taught them how to swim.
She was the beloved wife of Brian Black and a devoted mother to Michelle, Robin, Pamela, and Stephanie, who had lived with them for many years. Dawnna was also a cherished grandmother, a steady presence in the upbringing of many wonderful grandchildren, shaping their lives with her kindness, patience and gentle care.
Dawnna will be remembered for her brilliance, strength, compassion and spirit of generosity. Her legacy lives on in those who loved her deeply, in the community she served, and in the many lives she touched through her kindness.
