On Friday, March 28, Joetta O’Neill, 83, passed away peacefully after a brief illness. She had been residing with her son and daughter-in-law, Gary & Lisa O’Neill, in Tall Timbers, Maryland.
Joetta was born February 14, 2013 in Accotink, VA to Norris Allen Dawson and Virginia Mae (Harrison) Dawson. She was a caring and supportive mother who loved music, family and friends. Joetta graduated from Mount Vernon High School before marrying and beginning her family. She lived her life in Lorton, VA and worked as an executive secretary until her retirement at age 74. In addition, she devoted over 30 years as the organist for Cranford United Methodist Church in Lorton, VA. She enjoyed membership in the VFW and American Legion Ladies Auxiliary, where she excelled in becoming district president. Her accomplishments beyond being a dependable friend and loving mother are too numerous to mention. She is survived by two brothers, Ronald Dawson of Chesapeake, VA and Allen (Joyce) Dawson of Great Falls, VA and her children, Gary (Lisa) O’Neill of Tall Timbers, MD; Shawn (Liz) O’Neill of Titusville, FL; Andrea Tucker (Daryl) of Cocoa Beach, FL, Nancy (Brian) Ross of Fredericksburg; 6 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren, and one great-grandchild due any day. Joetta’s friendship, spirit and joy will be missed by many. A service to celebrate her life will be held on April 3, 2014 with viewing from 10-11am and services to follow in Cranford United Methodist Church, 9912 Old Colchester Road, Lorton, VA. Interment will follow in the church cemetery.
Recent Stories
This week, we’re thrilled to host Dr. Babur Lateef, Chairman of the Prince William County School Board, and Jennifer Wall, Gainesville District Representative, for an engaging discussion on the state of education in Prince William County on the next Potomac Local News Podcast.
Rania Lateef, a senior at Charles J. Colgan Sr. High School and the Governor’s School @ Innovation Park, daughter of Prince William School Board Chairman Babur Lateef, has been named one of 40 finalists in the prestigious 2025 Regeneron Science Talent Search (STS). Selected from nearly 2,500 applicants nationwide, Rania is recognized for her groundbreaking research on the effects of artificial light and circadian disruption on biobehavioral systems in Drosophila melanogaster. Her work highlights the impact of sleep and circadian rhythm disturbances on physical and mental health.
Rania credited her success to the supportive academic community of Prince William County Public Schools, her teachers Stephanie Brown and Dr. Alexis Patanarut, and her unique opportunities at GS@IP. As a finalist, she has already won $27,000 and will compete for additional awards totaling over $1.8 million during a week-long event in Washington, D.C., in March 2025. Rania’s journey emphasizes the power of passion and commitment in achieving meaningful scientific discoveries.
The Woodbridge District invites residents to join a Community Update Town Hall Meeting hosted by Supervisor Margaret Angela Franklin. This virtual event offers an opportunity for residents to stay informed about the latest developments and initiatives in the community.
Details of the Town Hall:
Date: January 29, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Virtual (via Zoom)
Residents can participate in the meeting by joining the Zoom session.
On January 24, 2025, at 12:25 a.m., Sergeant E.E. West responded to a single-vehicle crash at the McDonald’s on Wonder Road. An intoxicated driver, identified as Juan Gomez Alvarez, 38, of North Carolina, entered the drive-thru at a high rate of speed, struck a sign, and came to rest at an awkward angle, blocking the lane.
Gomez Alvarez displayed red, glassy eyes and had a strong odor of alcohol. The investigation revealed that he had been convicted of DUI in New York just the previous day, making this his second offense in five years. He was charged with DUI second offense, refusal, and destruction of property and was taken to Rappahannock Regional Jail without bond.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
