Kimberly Dawn Farrell

Kimberly "Dawn" Cox Farrell, 54, of Salem, Virginia, passed away peacefully at home on September 4, 2025, after a courageous 27 month battle with ovarian cancer. She was surrounded by her loving children, Hannah and Thomas, and many dear family members.

Dawn was born on September 28, 1970, in Roanoke, Virginia, to Dreama Henderson and Randall Cromer. In 1974, she was adopted by Roger Dale Cox and raised in Salem. She graduated from Glenvar High School and went on to earn her degree from Radford University.

For 24 years, Dawn devoted her life to teaching at East Salem Elementary School. She was more than just a teacher to her students—she was a mentor, cheerleader, and friend. Known for her kindness, warmth, and patience, Dawn had a way of making every child feel seen, valued, and loved. Her legacy as an educator lives on in the countless young lives she shaped.

Beyond the classroom, Dawn found joy in life's simple but beautiful moments. Her happy place was the beach, where she loved to feel the sand beneath her feet and bask in the sun. She treasured time with family and friends, always filling any space she entered with laughter and love.

Above all, Dawn was an extraordinary mother. Her children, Hannah and Thomas, were the center of her world. She poured her heart into raising them with unconditional love, guidance, and strength. To them, she was not only a mother, but a best friend, role model, and unwavering source of comfort.

Dawn was a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Salem, Va., where she found strength and peace throughout her life and during her illness.

She is preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Woodrow Wilson Henderson, Sr. and Mildred Louise Sawyer of Salem, Va.; paternal grandparents, Cline Cox and Ossie Marie Pettry of Indian Valley, Va.; and her mother, Dreama Henderson Freeman of Salem, Va.

She is survived by her children, Hannah Nicole Farrell of Charlottesville, Va., and Thomas Franklin Farrell, III of Salem, Va.; adoptive father, Roger Dale Cox (Faye) of Daleville, Va.; biological father, Randall Cromer and his wife of King William, Va.; brother, Matthew Elliott Cox (Amanda) of Charlotte, N.C.; sister, Sara Cromer Theos (Alex) of Rockville, Md.; brother, David Cromer of Swans Island, Maine; nieces and nephews, M. Elliott Cox, II (wife Jasmine) of Buena Vista, Va.; Alex Henderson Cox (wife Grace) of Columbia, S.C.; Chacey Cox of South Orange, N.J.; great-niece, Aria Kinder Cox; as well as multiple aunts, uncles and cousins.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Erin Saks and her team at Carilion Infusion Center, as well as Good Samaritan Hospice, for their compassionate care and support.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at 12:00 p.m., at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 6311 Wayburn Drive, Salem, Va., with Bishop James D. Gerken officiating. The family will receive friends beginning at 10:00 a.m. until the service time.

Dawn's life was one of love, courage, and selflessness. She will be remembered as a beloved mother, teacher, daughter, sister, and friend, whose spirit will continue to inspire all who knew her.