With sadness and peace, we announce the passing of Dawn Marie Eckstein, who left this world on June 19th, 2026, at the age of 61. A loving mother, grandmother, sister and friend, Dawn will be remembered for her kind nature, strength, and boisterous laugh.

Born in the state of Oregon, but proudly raised in Asbury Park, NJ, Dawn attended Asbury Park High School, where she was a flute player in the marching band, and completed her high school education in 1982.

An experienced swimmer, Dawn spent her summers as a teenager working as a lifeguard at Ocean Community Pool. There’s a story that, one evening around the age of 18, she set out swimming in the ocean at Asbury Park, passing the jetties and eventually coming ashore nearly a mile and a half away, near Bradley Beach. It’s no surprise that her friends were relieved to hear from her the next day.

She took great pride and joy in raising her daughter, Nicole. Over the years, Dawn enjoyed serving as a co-leader for Nicole’s Girl Scout troop and remained deeply involved with the First United Methodist Church of Toms River, where they attended for many years. Through these roles, she found meaningful ways to share her compassion and dedication to helping others in need.

In 2006, Dawn relocated to Richmond, VA, where she began a long career with the United States Postal Service. Over the years, she especially enjoyed getting to know the customers along her route, and the dogs she often encountered.

Throughout her life, Dawn had many interests, including card games, camping trips, participating in bowling leagues, being actively involved in church events, and spending time with family and friends. She was an animal lover of all kinds but the cats she cared for throughout her life always held a special place in her heart.

Dawn is survived by her beloved daughter, Nicole (Thomas) Hughes; her granddaughter, and a second granddaughter expected soon; her father, Clinton Eckstein; her brothers, Clint Eckstein, Daryl (Diane) Eckstein, and Bryan (Theresa) Eckstein; and four nephews and two nieces.

Dawn is preceded in death by her mother, Jacquelyn “Jackie” Phillips Eckstein and nephew DJ Eckstein.

Dawn will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving her. The family will host a celebration of life at a later date to reflect on Dawn’s life and share the many memories they have with her.