Dawn Michelle Trotter-Meadows

Dawn Michelle Trotter-Meadows, born on February 26, 1969, in Chicago, Illinois, entered eternal rest on September 6, 2025, in Junction City, Kansas. She was a remarkable woman, cherished by all who had the pleasure of knowing her. Dawn was a shining star possessing a beautiful sense of humor and a loving heart that made others feel happy and cared for. Her door was always open to anyone who sought comfort and support, a true testament to her generous spirit. Dawn accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior as a young child, and her faith was a guiding light throughout her life.

Dawn's life was one of dedication and service. Her commitment to her country was marked by her 14 years of service in the U.S. Army, where she was stationed at notable locations such as Fort Bragg, North Carolina, Fort Lee, Virginia, Kaiserslautern, Germany, Kuwait, Hawaii, and Fort Riley, Kansas. Dawn also held a special assignment as a culinary specialist at the Pentagon, showcasing her diverse talents. After her medical retirement, she went on to achieve her associate's degree and worked as a civil servant for over 20 years, eventually transitioning to the position of Management and Program Assistant on Fort Riley, Kansas, for the Installation Maintenance Division/Army Field Support Battalion-Riley.

Throughout her life, Dawn brought joy to her family by celebrating special holidays and creating unforgettable memories. She took great pride in her role as a loving wife, devoted mother, and doting "Noni" to her grandchildren. She had the immense joy of marrying the love of her life, Leo Meadows, on March 7, 2001, which beautifully blended their families. Dawn is lovingly remembered by her husband, Leo Meadows; daughters Margarita Caraway (married to James Caraway) and A'jia Hamlin; sons Jamaal Trotter and Alex Meadows; and her cherished grandchildren Malaya, Maya, Nataliyah, Aslan, Nile, and Affinity. She is also survived by her siblings, Vivian Proff of North Carolina and Ronald Trotter of Texas, and her "sister-cousins" Shelia Gothard, of North Carolina, Sheray Manuel and Sheletha Manuel, both of Michigan; along with a host of family and friends who will miss her dearly.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Vera Mae Trotter and Al Ford, as well as her beloved aunt and uncle, Sadie Manuel and Henry Manuel, who lovingly raised her in Paw Paw, Michigan.

The legacy of Dawn Michelle Trotter-Meadows will be celebrated and honored at Johnson & Mass-Hinitt Cremations, Funerals & Receptions in Junction City, Kansas. Visitation will take place on September 15, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, followed by a funeral service on September 16, 2025, at 11:00 AM. A graveside service will follow at the Kansas Veterans' Cemetery in Manhattan, Kansas, at 1:00 PM.

Dawn's life was a bridge between those she loved and those who needed love. Her memory will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to have known her.