Dawn E. (George) McDonald, 53, Carthage, Missouri, passed away Tuesday evening, May 20, 2025, at Mercy Hospital, Carthage. Dawn was born January 23, 1972, in Wayne County, Michigan, the daughter of the late Willis E. George, Sr. and Gloria Jean (Lingle) George. Dawn was raised by her “Mommy Aunt”, Rosa Lee Smith and Leon Smith.
A proud graduate of Carthage High School in 1990, Dawn furthered her education at the College of the Ozarks, where she cultivated a passion for knowledge and community. She dedicated her life to her family, embracing the role of a homemaker with grace and devotion. She married the love of her life, Ryan McDonald, on August 21, 2001, in Novinger, Missouri.
Her interests were a reflection of her gentle spirit. Dawn found joy in the simple pleasures of life, cherishing moments spent with her beloved husband, Ryan, their dogs, and losing herself in the pages of a good book. She attended Blendville Christian Church in Joplin, where she lived her faith through acts of kindness and compassion.
Dawn is survived by her husband of 23 years, Ryan McDonald; her son, Jason Patrick McDonald; her sisters, Frances Gonzalez, Charlene Tullis, and Tammy Seeley; and many extended family and friends. She was also preceded in death by a brother, Willis George, Jr., and her bonus parents, Rosie and Leon Smith.
The family will hold services at 2 pm, Friday, May 30, 2025, at Blendville Christian Church, Joplin, Missouri. Online condolences may be expressed through www.knellmortuary.com.
