Annet Mbabazi In a moment that redefined leadership, he chose humility over title.
Authority laid aside. You served with Humor and purpose, we miss you Tiger. RIP
Philip Manoh Sesay These memories I will hold forever
Joseph Ssekajja
Lynnette Ochieng
Lynnette Ochieng
Jazmin Mendoza El Salvador Regional Meeting
Meghan Stock We miss you and will be worshipping Jesus alongside you soon!
2015
Abigail Bach Loved the times together in Pagosa like this beautiful hike with Senior Leadership Team! You brought fun, joy and laugher to everything.
Tiger was an incredible servant leader at Edify. He cared about everyone and always focused on relationships above tasks. So many good times in Africa and Latin America over the past 12+ years, including our leadership gathering in Uganda rowing in small boats on the Nile. Tiger brought fun, joy and laughter to everything! You will be missed but ma...
Abigail Bach
Papa Tiger was a good man. He gave us opportunities for growth, fun, and connection with Jesus and others. He was the first person to highlight how the Bible tells portrays the fun aspect of God to me, and how He wants us to experience fun. I will always remember his humility—in helping me select meals, in kneeling and requesting that all staff pra...
Abby
Nyanda Biaty Duworko
Nyanda Biaty D. Tiger always made us feel loved, secure and comfortable in his presence. Thanks for the Love
Loved By
ND
Nyanda Biaty Duworko
Nyanda Biaty D. These are memories that will live with me forever
Mihiret Tefera Thank you, Tiger. You are a remarkable leader and a faithful servant. We will see you again.
Sabiti DisanDear Tiger, It is hard to find words to honor you, yet we thank the Lord for the beautiful life He gave you. Your humility, wisdom, and servant heart will continue to guide and inspire us. We will deeply miss your vibrant spirit and your strength, even in times of illness.
May you continue to rest peacefully in the Lord’s embrace, and may we rejoice together with you on the resurrection morning.
“Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His faithful servants.” (Psalm 116:15)28th December, 2025
Claudine UWIMBABAZI Dear Tiger,
I would like to take a moment to sincerely appreciate you for the leader you have been to us. Your humility, servant heart, and deep love for God have been evident in the way you lead, relate to people, and make decisions.
You have not only guided the organization with wisdom and vision, but you have also consistently encouraged us to keep God at the center of our work and lives. Your example has inspired many of us to grow both professionally and spiritually.
Thank you for leading with grace, faith, and integrity. Your life and leadership have made a lasting impact on us and on the mission we serve.27th December, 2025
Finda Amie FannahDear Tiger, it may seem to families , friends and love ones that death has done it worse. But to God, It's a celebration because one of His owns have joined Him. Your leadership style really portrayed that of Jesus while he was on earth. Your servant leadership made it difficult for one to distinguish between you and us the staff. This I can testify especially my first time of meeting you in Uganda year 2022. Rest well.
Here is a tribute song: It was one Sunday evening..When I heard that Tiger was dead. Its a day that we will always remember..., when Tiger was destined to die. Gone his soul...up to heaven, we all have sinned, that He left behind. No more sickness, no more pain, may his soul rest in peace....21st December, 2025
Boaz DaI can remember when I had the chance to talk to Tiger during the Global conference in Kenya, it was a very short discussion. I wanted to hear what are his advice and expectations as I was in the process to enter the CD role. His response was short, even unexpected but powerful. He said: ‘Love Jesus and do your work, serve the schools with love.’ I was expecting some lessons of leadership and technical requirement and now he is talking about love! But it allowed me to realize more that Love for Jesus-Christ is the first and the last thing that will maintain us in our work and roles in Troubled Times. We could feel tired or discouraged or even betrayed…people could misunderstand us or misbehave with us, we can face many challenges, however, Love for Jesus-Christ will comfort us and maintain us. It gives meaning to our work. His answer has been a lesson for life…I am always encouraged to realize that the work is for Jesus because of His love shown to humanity. Tiger’s humility and simplicity are also noticeable. May the Holy Spirit comfort the family.20th December, 2025
Diana Ortíz I meet Tiger in virtual meeting, he was explaining one Edify´s Core Value, I felt his passion, his love for the Lord and his wisdom teaching us what matters the most for our organization. I loved how he model us each one of those Core Values, but the one that will stay in my heart and mind is: Be joyful, be thankful and *HAVE FUN* he knew how to live this value and how to share it with others, he did when he was praying, sharing a story, saying hello to you for the first time, having dinner with you in an All-staff conference, or when you saw him sharing with others!! It was a privilege to meet him in this earth, to hear him talked about Jesus, about eternal life. Some of the phrases that I learn from him are: "We are all here for a season"... "Edify it is not about me"... "Pray for God to do His will on me". But if having the privilege to meet him wasn´t enough, meeting him give you the opportunity to share with his incredible wife; Leslie, her way to guide us to Jesus, using those quiet times, that I´m sure, God used those quiet times to talk to both of them. Tiger and Leslie are a gift that the ones that know them have had the opportunity to share with, we will miss Tiger, we will keep in prayers for Leslie and his girls and family, and I hope we will see in Heaven.
P.S. The blog during this season was a blessing for me, I got closer to God while a read the testimonies of this hard time, Leslie knew how to encourage us with her writing!!!!!
19th December, 2025
Josiah MacMillanIt was an honor to meet Tiger in person during the conference in El Salvador this past spring. As every Edify employee will testify to, Tiger was very intentional about knowing people and building relationships. I only knew him for a short time but I know he took Edify's values seriously and modeled them all unapologetically. During the conference, he had dinner with all the new staff members just to listen to our story. What was amazing about this moment is that Tiger was equally interested in every story, regardless of the background. On the way back to the States, I also got to play cards with Tiger, Leslie, and a few others US staff members, and it was impossible to tell who was a CEO, director or staff accountant. We all looked like colloquies fellowshipping, as we waited for our flights.
Tiger had a heart for people and it's no surprise that Tiger and Chris Crane founded Edify. He gave me the vibe of a man of action. This is evident in Edify's core values. Every one of them has Tiger's fingerprint. Because of his obedience and being a man of action, millions of children have the chance of quality and sustainable education, and especially, knowing the Lord.
I was born and lived in Liberia until my mid-teen years. Some 25 plus years ago, I was the very children that Edify is serving now. I spent over 7 years in 4 different orphanages. They all lacked quality education, especially a Christ-centered one. We received aids from NGOs and many other Christian ministries, but none were sustainable. I wish Edify was around during these times, but I'm honored to now be part of bring hope. Thanks to Tiger and Chris for making this happen.
Thank you so much Leslie and the entire Dawson family for sharing your husband, father, grandfather with us. I pray that as you process the loss of such a great man, you can find peace and joy in knowing how many lives Tiger has impacted positively. We all owe you a lot of thanks for sharing him with us, even during the difficult times. Thank you Tiger for offering up everything about you to be a vessel for the Lord. Your life is an example for us all. Thank you for taking personal interest in me and everyone you came across. You'll be missed dearly, but your presence and legacy will remain with us forever.
19th December, 2025
Broad AgabaBe Joyful, Be Thankful, and Have Fun!
It is with profound respect that we acknowledge a life well-lived, a testament to devoted service to the Lord, deep love for family, and significant positive impact on the world. You have transitioned to glory with grace. I will forever hold in memory your unwavering commitment to excellence, your exceptional ability to connect with others, and your success in forging and maintaining meaningful friendships. Your acceptance of God's calling and subsequent demonstration of His nature throughout the world have been exemplary. We extend our sincere gratitude for your contribution in making this world a better place.19th December, 2025
Moses wanjaBe joyful, be thankful, and have fun. Nehemiah8:10.
" Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drink, and send to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, For the joy of the lord is our strength. This day the people the who heard the law read to the grieved and cried throughout the whole session but they were command to go and eat because they had chance to now understand the law. As the CEO of edify your life is like this moment to as Tiger we know that you have gone to be with the lord but missing you makes us grieve, we miss you, I know your wife and children will miss with the memories un measurable. I like how you demonstrated CORE VALUE 7 we shall always thank God for your shot life on earth just like us on the same way, may the grace of the Lord join us together in eternity with you. You had pain yet you laughed throughout I saw you in Kenya. You have been a Saul with the Joy of the lord and this is how I will remember you, This is how i will want to live.19th December, 2025
Jazmin MendozaI firmly believe that each of the core values we live by as an organization is inspired by the way Tiger lived his life. He was a genuine example of servant leadership, with a deep passion for Christ-centered education—a leader who inspired not only through carefully chosen and powerful words, but by reflecting Christ through the way he lived.
Tiger truly enjoyed life and had a very special sense of humor. Being a CEO was never a barrier to his authenticity or approachability; rather, the consistency between what he believed and how he lived was deeply inspiring. In the same Annual Meeting, he could guide us to reflect thoughtfully on our vision and, later that evening, surprise us with moments of joy—such as the time he appeared in a disco suit and wig.
Thank you, Tiger, for never allowing a role or a diagnosis to define who you were, and for always choosing to live with authenticity. We trust that you are now resting in eternity, receiving the promised reward of a good and faithful servant. Rest in peace.18th December, 2025
Ruth Aiko IkongorToday I honor and remember Tiger, a truly visionary and servant hearted leader whose life spoke louder than words. Tiger led with uncommon humility, never seeking recognition, yet leaving an indelible mark on everyone he encountered. He believed that leadership was not about position, but about service and he lived this truth faithfully.
Tiger cared deeply about people and paid attention to every detail, no matter how small. He understood that excellence is found in faithfulness and he approached every responsibility with sincerity, diligence and grace. His leadership was steady, thoughtful and grounded in love for others.
Above all, Tiger was a strong follower and an unwavering lover of Jesus Christ. His faith was not merely spoken, it was lived daily through his actions, compassion, integrity and obedience. He walked humbly with God and inspired others to do the same, pointing people to Christ not by force but by example.
Though we grieve his absence, we celebrate a life well lived a life of service, faith and purpose. Tiger’s legacy will continue to live on in the values he modeled, the lives he touched and the faith he so beautifully reflected.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.”
Rest in peace Tiger.
18th December, 2025
Kathy AguayoThere is no greater leadership than the kind that is born in the heart of God and reflected in transformed lives. Thank you, Tiger, for your obedience, your dedication, and for allowing God to use you to impact generations through His Word. We firmly believe that the Lord placed a dream in your heart, trusting that you would run this race with faithfulness, humility, and perseverance—being faithful in little and then in much. Today, we say goodbye with gratitude and hope, knowing that the seeds you planted will continue to bear fruit. Your legacy remains, and we thank God for your life and leadership.18th December, 2025
Nyanda Biaty DuworkoTiger, I honor your life as a true servant leader who reflected the love of Christ through compassion, kindness and humility. You led by position, but by example; serving others with a gentle heart and unwavering faith even to the end. Tiger, your life spoke louder than words, you made peoplefeel seen, valued, and loved, and your faith was seen in all you did, you showed us that true leadership is found in service. Though we grieve, we have hope, knowing you have finished your race and now rests in the presence of the Savior you faithfully served. " Well done, good and faithful servent."
May we continue to honor your legacy by loving as you loved and serving as Christ calls us to serve.
Blessings18th December, 2025
lexie SmithTiger, you are the one who first told me I could be a writer, and you said it in a way that made me feel like I could do anything. I know you were like this with everyone you met, and I can't help but think of how many lives you changed because of your enthusiasm for adventure and stepping into God's calling for your life. You always displayed a contagious energy for life that I will always remember, and that will forever inspire me. I pray that I can live a life as full of Jesus as you did!17th December, 2025
Samuel MukasaDear Tiger,
It is with a heavy heart that I write this farewell message to a visionary and unwavering leader you have been. You are a giant of faith on whose shoulders we have stood. A true embodiment of core values, you consistently inspired us to think of those who exemplified these values. Reflecting on 2022, when I had the privilege of working closely with you on the Global Conference in Uganda and later in the family experience, I treasure the lessons learned during those days. Your words of encouragement and moments of joy will remain in my heart as I strive to follow the path you have paved. Thank you for planting the seed; we shall water it, and with God's grace, the Edify tree will spread its branches across many nations, impacting countless lives.
Rest well giant of faith, you ran the race triumphantly.17th December, 2025
Nancy AkelloTiger. You are such a phenomenal leader, what a joy getting to know you and to serve the lord together in this ministry. You are so humble, you know every staff by name. You lived the core value transformation through relationship. Your leadership will be missed, rest well with the angels.17th December, 2025
Bright Akomeah-BonsuTiger, my first encounter with you was in Ghana when you visited us in December 2019 and you witnessed the Hour of Code event in one of our partner schools. I could tell the joy and the excitement on your face seeing the amazing work the children had worked on, and that smile and laughter on your face never faded away till your departure. Thank you for everything you stood for and did for all of us.
Till we meet again, rest well. 17th December, 2025
Lynnette Ochieng I had just joined Edify, I was barely days old, God in His infinite mercy accorded me the honor, the privilege to meet with you, we had a good time together in Nairobi. Thank you Tiger, for the love, you showed us during our first days. Even the orientation you gave us. We went thru the core values with you. The mission and vision of Edify. You asked our story. You sat and listened all thru. Thank you for coming to Kenya and ensuring we began strong.
We love you.
17th December, 2025
Joseph SsekajjaTiger we miss you and have nothing much to do now only to pray that the Lord will recieve you in glory. The transformation you have done in lives of many young generations will stay genereration after the other, you walked the talk and through you many people have known Jesus and got closer to him. During the time you visited a school in Uganda you planted a mango tree which now bares fruits, its unfornate that you have not eaten part of the fruits but the school always remebers you and pray for you, till we meet!17th December, 2025
Mollson MuhimbiseThe way you led with Humility, your high sense of humor and understanding that people/staff have to be valued was the the greatest lesson i learnt about you. Your signature talk that involved words like Terrific, listen to God wow! You are remembered forever17th December, 2025
Storm Godwinson It’s been an honor knowing and serving with you.
Watching you getting wowed during the « hour of code » program, getting beaten during our last dominoes game 😀😀
Thank you for being you 🙏🏻17th December, 2025
Philip Manoh SesayTiger Dawson,
CEO of Edify Global, a servant leader whose life was anchored in Christ Centered Education and expressed through humility, love, and unwavering faith.
Tiger led with a bright and steady light, inspiring schools, leaders, and communities across the world to see education not just as learning, but as discipleship and hope for generations.
His legacy lives on in every life shaped by his vision, every school strengthened by his leadership, and every heart encouraged by his gentle spirit. He will be deeply missed.
We pray that God grants comfort, peace, and strength to his beloved wife Leslie and their children, and to the entire Edify Global family.
Until we meet again at the banquet table of our Lord, rest well.
Good night, our Tiger.
Philip Manoh Sesay
CCEO - Sierra Leone16th December, 2025
Zekarias Nigatu Tadesse Today, I want to honor and celebrate the life of a dear brother, a faithful leader, and a powerful example of a Christ-like life—Tiger Dawson.
I met Tiger in 2020, just before COVID changed the world. It was my first time at Edify, and it was in San Diego, California. To be honest, I was nervous—terrified even—about meeting people, especially leadership. Meeting the CEO felt overwhelming.
But Tiger changed that immediately.
I remember our first meeting like it was yesterday. He asked my name, and when I said “Zekarias,” he smiled and said, “Zach—that’s easy.” Just like that, the fear was gone.
I truly connected with Tiger during a volleyball game in San Diego. He was joking, laughing, and enjoying people in a way that felt so familiar to me—like friends back home. I remember thinking to myself, this guy is ፀዴ ሰው—a deeply loved and respected man.
There are three principles I will always associate with Tiger: simple, focused, and healthy. These were not just words to him; they were Christ-centered values he lived out daily. From the day I heard them, they became principles I chose to live by.
Tiger brought joy wherever he went. His love for volleyball and dominoes reminded me that leadership and joy can walk hand in hand.
He was also a man of prayer. The spiritual principles that he and his wonderful wife, Leslie Dawson, shared with me became central to my prayer life. Before joining the leadership cohort, I carried a deep question about hearing the voice of God. Because of Tiger and Leslie, I learned to practice listening to God more clearly. That gift has changed my life.
Tiger was the most humble CEO I have ever known. He was serious about excellence, yet full of laughter. He held people to high standards while leading with grace. His respect for time and his discipline in managing it were remarkable.
Above all, Tiger was a man of deep faith. I have rarely met someone who lived without fear of death—someone so anchored in trust in the Lord. His faith was real, steady, and unshakable.
Dear brother, friend, and leader, I testify with all my heart that you are one of the most impactful people I have ever met. It is hard not seeing you at Edify and in our daily lives. I wish we had more time.
You will always be honored in my heart. Until the day we meet again in heaven, I will carry forward the principles you planted in my life.
I would like to close with Scripture:
“Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your Master.”
— Matthew 25:23
And also:
“To live is Christ, and to die is gain.”
— Philippians 1:21
Amen.
16th December, 2025
Annet MbabaziFollowing the way of Jesus, Tiger led not from above but from beside us. His faith shaped his purpose, his humor lifted our spirits, and his servant’s heart left an enduring mark. We miss you Tiger, continue enjoying face to face fellowship with Jesus16th December, 2025
Marlon Hernándezto the family of our beloved Tiger,
Please accept my deepest and most heartfelt condolences. Tiger was an extraordinary leader and an impressive human being who left a mark on everyone he met.
It was an honor to know him and work alongside him. We will love him, honor his legacy, and miss his presence forever. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this incredibly difficult time.
With love and respect.16th December, 2025
Ryan KingI loved dancing with Tiger in Temecula, Colorado, Guatemala, the DR, and Uganda. Salsa in the DR, the dance party at the annual meeting in Temecula, and having to teach line dancing in CO bc the DJ was so bad, haha. Nonetheless, Tiger always encouraged my weird love of (obsession with) dancing, and he joined in or led it himself! This speaks to how thankful I am that Tiger accepted me for who I was. He had that gift for everyone. You didn't need to be "someone" or be different for Tiger to find the gifts God had given you or the benefits you had to offer others. Tiger celebrated you and encouraged everyone to find their voice—an incredible servant leader. I couldn't end without mentioning Tiger's faith in God's will. His peace with what was to be was a testament to his enduring faith. May we all live as such. 16th December, 2025
Innocent Karuranga“Then I heard a voice from heaven say, ‘Write this: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.’
‘Yes,’ says the Spirit, ‘they will rest from their labor, for their deeds will follow them.’” - Revelation 14:13
When I heard that Tiger had gone to be with the Lord, this verse immediately came to my mind. I was deeply touched by the confidence and hope he expressed in Christ in the video he left for us. In that moment, death seemed to lose its power—because for those who share the same faith and hope in the Lord as Tiger did, dying is truly gain. Rest in peace, man of God.16th December, 2025
Samuel KargboTribute to Tiger Dawson
Co-Founder, CEO, and President of Edify
I first met Tiger Dawson in 2015 through my friend Kurt Knapton, who introduced me to both Edify and Tiger himself. Our initial meeting left a lasting impression, but it was in 2016 when Tiger truly began to share the vision of Edify with me, sparking my interest in their mission. However, it was not until 2017, when I was invited to the Edify Global Meeting in Ghana, that I truly understood the transformative power of Edify’s vision, mission, and core values.
That same year, Tiger visited Sierra Leone to launch Edify's pilot project, and his passion for making a difference was evident. Three years later, he returned to announce that Edify Sierra Leone had transitioned from pilot to a full-fledged program. During a gathering of school owners, his excitement was palpable as he confidently told the group, "All your problems are over." I jokingly corrected him, but Tiger's humility and good-natured humor were always part of his charm.
Through my experiences with Tiger, I learned many valuable lessons, including humility, simplicity, servant leadership, humor, passion, focus, and intentionality. His dedication to the people and mission of Edify was unwavering, and his love for Sierra Leone will always be remembered.
Tiger’s legacy lives on in the impact Edify has made here in Sierra Leone, and we will never forget his contributions. His vision, leadership, and heart for service have left an indelible mark, and Edify Sierra Leone will continue to grow because of his profound influence.
Rest in peace, Tiger. Your work and spirit will forever inspire us.
1st Samuel
16th December, 2025
Augustine Laveleh Jr"And when life is all over here on earth, the last prayer has been prayed, the battles are all done, smoke’s dried up, gone away, arms is stacked, the Bible’s closed, and we come up to Your house…That great morning, breaks eternal bright and fair, when the chosen ones shall gather to their home beyond the skies, as the poet said…Lord, as we see that great table stretched out there for that supper, thousands of miles long, looking across the table to each other, battle-scarred veterans, tears of joy running down our cheeks…The King come out in His beauty, holiness, walk down along the table and take His Own hands and wipe the tears from our eyes, saying, “Don’t cry no more, it’s all over. Enter into the joys of the Lord.” The toils of the road will seem nothing then, Father, when we get to the end of the way."
Quote from: Rev. William Marrion Branham
June 24. 1954
16th December, 2025
Michael KamaraTiger, the best way I can describe you is this: you were a good man.
You consistently asked about my well-being and my family, and I deeply treasured that care.
Your leadership taught me the true meaning of humility and servant leadership—lessons I will never trade for anything.
Thank you, Tiger, for being part of my life.
You are an enduring part of my story.
Enjoy your time with the Lord as we look forward to being reunited with you in His presence.16th December, 2025
Celebrating the life of
Tiger Dawson
17 Sep 1961 - 07 Dec 2025
Family and friends
Tiger Dawson passed away on Sun Dec 07 2025, at the age of 64. Tiger's memory will forever live on in the hearts of family and friends.
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