Clara Dawnelle Loiselle

We come to you with a heavy heart to share the news of the passing of a remarkable individual, Clara Dawnelle Loiselle, known affectionately by friends and family as Dawnelle. She left us on October 21, 2024, at the age of 77, in Eldersburg, Maryland, after a courageous battle with dementia. She finally joins the love of her life, Dennis Loiselle, in heaven. An Army brat and dedicated wife, she will be interned with Dennis for all eternity at Arlington National Cemetery.

Born on November 18, 1946, in the quaint town of Harriman, Tennessee, Dawnelle's life was one marked by an insatiable thirst for knowledge and a passion for the English language. Her academic journey culminated with a PhD in English, a testament to her dedication and love for literature.

Dawnelle's professional path was as distinguished as it was inspiring. She dedicated many years of her life to academia, enlightening young minds as a Professor of English and Women's Studies at the University of Maryland, College Park (UMCP), Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA), and Towson University. Her colleagues revered her for her intellectual prowess, her students adored her for her wit and wisdom, and the academic community at large respected her for her contributions to the field.

Beyond the hallowed halls of academia, Dawnelle was deeply involved in a myriad of activities that showcased her diverse talents and interests. Her love for writing was not just a profession but also a personal calling, and her works, imbued with her unique voice, will resonate with readers for years to come. Dawnelle's artistic flair extended to painting and crafting, where she translated her vivid imagination into colorful canvases and intricate creations. Jewelry making was another avenue where her creativity shone brightly, each piece reflecting her meticulous nature and artistic vision.

A strong willed and caring woman, Dawnelle was a vocal activist and supporter of human and women’s rights. For many years, she and Dennis volunteered at homeless shelters and soup kitchens, including the Community for Creative Non-Violence (CCNV) alongside Mitch Snyder in Washington DC. She protested fervently for the causes she supported and believed in, like Amnesty International, and actively participated in rallies and helped others where she could.

A woman of many hobbies, Dawnelle found solace in the simplicity of bird watching, the thrill of antiquing, and the joy of yard saling. These activities not only brought her immense pleasure but also allowed her to connect with nature and the community in meaningful ways.

To those who knew her, Dawnelle was the epitome of intelligence, creativity, and humor. Her laughter was infectious, her advice invaluable, and her presence a source of comfort and inspiration. She possessed the rare ability to light up a room with her wit and charm, leaving a lasting impact on everyone she met. She fondly remembered her plethora of poetry readings and performance art at DC Space and Montpelier Mansion. She and Dennis early on found a shared love of community theater and worked on several productions together.

Dawnelle's legacy is carried on by her loving family, including her son, Russell Loiselle (Shawnn), and daughter, Michelise “Mikki” Loiselle (Jim), her brother Chuck, her grandkids Hope, Noah, Katie, Grace, and Jake to whom she was called “Kiddo”, and her niece Kari and other countless nieces and nephews. The bond they shared was fortified by love, respect, and shared experiences that will forever be cherished in their hearts.

As we bid farewell to Dawnelle, we celebrate a life lived to the fullest, a mind that never stopped seeking knowledge, and a heart that never stopped giving. Her contributions to academia, her love for the arts, and her undeniable spirit have left an indelible mark on the world. Dawnelle Loiselle may have departed from this earthly realm, but her memory will continue to inspire and live on in the lives of those who were fortunate enough to cross paths with her.

Rest in peace, Dawnelle, and know that your story is one of triumph, passion, and unrelenting joy. Your journey here on Earth may have come to an end, but your legacy will resonate for generations to come.

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