A member of the Rev Ian Paisley's Assembly team died yesterday following a short illness.
The DUP stalwart (45), who died at home, had been tipped as a future minister, and his party leader said he would be sorely missed.
"As member of the Assembly for East Antrim he worked tirelessly for his constituents, reaching out across many spheres in the best interests of the people of Northern Ireland," Dr Paisley said.
"His contribution to the business life of the province marked him out as a real ambassador."
Mr Dawson spent his career with the DUP and was also Grand Master of the Independent Orange Order.
"George was heavily involved in promoting the work of the loyal orders and had been active in attempting to solve parading issues," Dr Paisley added.
First elected in 2003 he was due to be the vice-chair of the Assembly's finance committee. His last public appearance was in March commenting on the election results for the BBC.