Dawn Benita Knight-Wilson was born on June 19, 1961, in Ottawa, IL, to Cleo and Jeraldine (Jeri) Stepney Knight. She departed this earthly life at 4:45 a.m. on Friday, January 24, 2025, at Jackson Memorial Hospital in Jackson, TN.

If ever there was an Earth Angel, it was Dawn. She was a mother to anyone who needed one, beginning with her family. She nurtured her parents, siblings, nieces, nephews, cousins, neighbors, and friends, always giving selflessly of her love, time, and talents.

She attended Gompers Jr. High before graduating from Joliet Central High School in 1978. A natural leader and overachiever, she excelled in everything she pursued. Dawn dedicated 30 years of service to the Illinois Department of Corrections, working at Stateville, Joliet Corrections, and later the Department of Human Services. She earned her associate’s degree from Joliet Junior College in 2005

Her greatest passion was family—both the one she was born into and the many friends who became family. Among her dearest lifelong friends were Mildred “Josie” Williams Jones and Christina Johns.

Dawn met and married David Wilson, and together they celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary on December 26, 2024. Though no children were born into their union, they welcomed Mitchil Duane Knight-Wilson into their lives with love.

After retiring, Dawn moved to Jackson, Tennessee, where she became an active member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, serving faithfully on the liturgical committee and other ministries. She was also an honorary member of Mount Moriah Baptist Church, where she generously shared her time, talents, and love.

An avid reader, passionate cook, and enthusiastic shopper, Dawn found her greatest joy in spending time with family and serving God. She truly embodied the spirit of an Earth Angel and will be deeply missed.

Survived By:

She is survived by her loving and devoted husband, David J. Wilson; her son, Mitchil Knight-Wilson and Nugget; her sister, Dayna Knight; and her brothers, Douglas and David (Tracy) Knight.

She also leaves behind her beloved nephew, Dante Parr; nieces, Amber (Kenny) Pinnick, Breana Render, Heaven Clark, Symphony Clark, Krystal Bey, and Katherine Piggee; great-nieces, Jazlyn Miller, Kiylah Hodgens, Kendra Pinnick, and Kenisha Pinnick; great-nephew, Malachi Render and a host more who loved her.

Dawn will also be dearly missed by her special daughter, Freda B, and her cherished grandchildren, Jonquarious Johnson, Terri Jay Miller, Avery, and Asunta.

She is survived by special aunts, Rovella Pitter (NJ) and great-aunt Tinia Knight Gavin (Joliet), along with many extended family members and friends who were blessed to have known and loved her.

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