Dawn (Belcastro) Guillory

Dawn Carole (Belcastro) Guillory, 71, a long time resident of McGaheysville, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 19, 2025 at Sentara RMH in Harrisonburg after her 11 year battle with stage four melanoma.

The daughter of Don and Melva Belcastro, Dawn was born February 15, 1954 at Case Western University Hospital in Cleveland, Ohio. Soon after, the Belcastros moved and settled in Montezuma.

A 1972 graduate of Turner Ashby HS, Dawn pursued her mother's profession and graduated from RMH School of Nursing in 1975.

As an RN for 50 years in Virginia Beach, Houston, TX, and Harrisonburg, she worked in a variety of positions including ER, ICU, nursing education and Geriatrics. Dawn finalized her career at VMRC, ending in May, 2025, leaving an indelible mark with her care and professional ability.

On December 31, 1988, Dawn married the love of her life, Van Eric Guillory who predeceased her in October, 2010. They shared an everlasting bond and love of the valley, music, laughter, and most of all, dogs.

Surviving in addition to her black lab Jude, are brother Marc (Shawn) Belcastro of Glen Allen, VA, sister Toni Bentel (George) Bailey of Mt. Crawford, nephews Matthew Bentel, Christopher Belcastro, and niece Elizabeth Belcastro (DJ) Kelly , great nephews Mason Bentel and Emerson Belcastro, great niece Madelena Belcastro.

Dawn was predeceased by her parents, and baby sister Terry Lee Belcastro.

The family recognizes Dr. Elizabeth Gaughan and team at UVA Oncology for their determination in advancing cures for melanoma and Sentara RMH for her end of life comfort care.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, August 23, 2025 from 5:30 to 7:30 PM at Johnson Funeral & Cremation Service in Bridgewater.

A private burial service is planned.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contribitions may be made to Sunny Ridge Kennels, 5501 Sunny Ridge Dr, Mt Crawford, VA 22841.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at johnsonfs.com.