Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Dawn Elizabeth Carrigg

September 24, 1959 – June 1, 2026

On Monday, June 1, 2026, our world lost a vibrant, dedicated, and deeply loved soul. Dawn Elizabeth Carrigg (née Madden), a resident of Tucson, Arizona, passed away, leaving behind a life defined by her unwavering service to others, an adventurous spirit, and an absolute, fierce devotion to her family.

Born on September 24, 1959, in Centerville, Illinois, Dawn was the cherished daughter of the late William Lee Madden Sr. and Rose Lee Madden (née Oetting). As a young girl, she moved with her parents to Tucson, Arizona, a place that would become the backdrop for the rest of her beautiful life. She graduated from Palo Verde High School and proudly rooted her life, career, and legacy in the Tucson community.

For 30 years, Dawn was a dedicated and tireless servant to the state of Arizona. Her career reflected her heart—always working in roles that supported, protected, and lifted others. From her time with the Emissions Department to her impactful years with the Department of Economic Security, working in the Jobs and the Childcare Program, she touched countless lives across the state. When she retired in 2023, she left behind a legacy of hard work and community impact that will not soon be forgotten.

Retirement opened a joyful new chapter for Dawn. She traded the schedule of public service for the freedom of the open road, spending her final years traveling and soaking in every possible moment with those she loved most.

To know Dawn was to know a woman of incredible spirit. She possessed a legendary gift for gab—famous for hosting the longest, most winding conversations where getting a word in edgewise was a competitive sport. She was a woman who knew her mind, lived authentically, and, without fail, always had to have the last word. That vibrant, sharp, and affectionate voice will be missed beyond measure by everyone who ever shared a cup of tea or a long afternoon with her.

Dawn re-enters the loving embrace of her parents, William and Rose, her dear sister and best friend, Connie Lee and brother-in-law Sam, who preceded her in death.

Her love, humor, and spirit live on through the beautiful family she raised and adored: Her sons, Joshua and Justin, her daughters, Shila and Felicity, her Brother Shawn (Tish). Her Grandchildren: Christian, Nickolas, Conor, Madison, Amara, Melanie, Aniya, Esmeralda, her daughter-in-law Austin, and her son-in-law (who she entrusted her daughters to) Rob. Many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends, all of whom brought immense joy to her life.

Dawn lived fully, spoke her mind completely, and loved her family fiercely. Though she has taken her final journey, the warmth of her voice and the echo of her last word will remain in our hearts forever.

A memorial service celebrating Dawn's life and legacy was held surrounded by the love of her family and friends at the home of her daughter, Shila, on June 4, 2026.