For Dawon Stokes, plumbing isn’t just about fixing leaks or installing water heaters. It’s about restoring trust—one home at a time.

Dawon, owner and lead plumber of S&L Plumbing LLC in St. Louis, has been in the plumbing industry for over 16 years. But his focus hasn’t changed. “We are honest, knowledgeable, and family-friendly,” he says, a simple statement that drives every job, every estimate, every handshake.

That mindset began to take shape long before S&L Plumbing existed. Born in St. Louis, Dawon spent his early years growing up in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Eventually, he returned to his hometown to be closer to his mother and grandparents. It was during this time that he started laying the foundation for his future—both personally and professionally.

After a series of jobs, a close friend brought him along on a plumbing job. “I was hooked,” Dawon recalls. “I love working with my hands and meeting new people every day.” That spark led him to graduate from Vatterot College with a focus on plumbing, setting the stage for what would become a deeply personal and fulfilling career.

Today, S&L Plumbing handles everything from stack replacements and interior sewer lateral repairs to remodels, fixture installations, and shower valve replacements. But what really sets Dawon apart is his approach to the trade. “We don’t always charge service fees,” he notes. “We take pride in the quality of our work, not just the money.”

That attitude—centered around integrity—has helped define S&L Plumbing's reputation among clients and real estate professionals alike. “We are reliable, honest, and reasonable,” he explains. “If they have tried the rest, now try the best.”

Dawon specializes in residential repairs and remodeling, often working with homeowners, real estate agents, and house flippers. His ideal client? “Anyone who’s had a bad experience with other contractors,” he says, a group he’s all too familiar with helping turn the page.

While building his company, Dawon has remained grounded in something bigger than business—his family. “We have a slogan of family and football,” he says, a nod to his years coaching youth sports. “Now it’s family and business for the future.”

With four daughters, seven nephews, and two grandchildren, family life is always front and center. Whether fishing, boating, or cheering loudly at kids' events, Dawon makes no secret of where his priorities lie. “Family first. Work will come. But if they are not okay, then I’m not going to be able to give my all.”

Dawon credits much of his professional success to the people who have come alongside him over the years. “The people I have had the pleasure of meeting and working for and seeing how they incorporated family first always—it keeps me grounded,” he reflects. He also points to important figures like his grandfather and his last employer at Craftsman Plumbing as key influences.

For Dawon, success isn’t measured in dollars or projects—it’s measured in legacy. “Success is being able to build a future for my family to grow from,” he says.

Looking ahead, Dawon has a clear vision. “Have a great year two in business. Walk my daughter down the aisle. Send my youngest off to college. Eventually start a secondary business with my nephews.”

For real estate professionals looking for a trusted partner in the field, Dawon has one more note: “We do pre-inspections—sewer and plumbing—and we do code corrections and violations.” It’s a reminder that for S&L Plumbing, the job is always done right, and always with care.

“I want to change the mindset that people have when it comes to the trades,” he says. “And make our customers happy. Flowing solutions, happy homes, every time.”