Rebecca Dawkins Troxler
Rebecca Dawkins Troxler, 77, was born on July 30, 1948, in Birmingham, Alabama, and passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family at age on April 16, 2026. She lived her life with faith, love and an unwavering commitment to those she loved.
She graduated from the University of Alabama with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Education in 1970, she received a Master of Education from the University of Alabama in Birmingham in 1975 and was a Woodrow Wilson Fellow of Princeton University in 1987. She taught high school and college mathematics to students in Tennessee and Alabama. She married her college sweetheart, John Anthony Troxler, Jr. in 1970 and began the love story of their lives. She was devoted to her family and was immensely proud of her two daughters and grandson.
Throughout her life, Rebecca remained deeply committed to service to her community. When John retired, they moved to Soddy Daisy, where Rebecca was involved in several sewing groups. She was an active member of Rivermont Presbyterian Church for many years. She supported Haiti relief efforts through ministry partnerships that provided handmade sewn goods to mothers, children, and infants in need. She also donated many handmade blankets to the Ronald McDonald House and women and children's shelters. Another sewing interest was making patriotic memorials for the Quilts of Valor program. She made 105 pieced quilt tops and 264 finished quilts that are awarded to active and veteran military members. Upon retirement, she enjoyed traveling with John to Italy, England, cruising to Alaska, Nova Scotia, and around South America. They also enjoyed lovely domestic river cruises, spending time exploring new locations and rediscovering old favorites.
She is survived by her husband, John, of 55 years; daughter, Ruth Troxler Vine and grandson, Cole Allyn Vine; daughter, Jean Ann Patterson and husband, Luke; sister, Olivia Williams and husband, Cal; sister, Martha Glotfelty and husband, Henry; brother, Robert Dawkins and wife, Jacie; and extended family and friends.
She was the absolute best Mother anyone could have asked for, and while she may no longer be here in person, her love is a permanent part of the lives she touched.
Though her presence will be profoundly missed, she leaves behind a family that is ready for the world because of the foundation she built. She prepared them better than they ever realized, giving them the tools to stay strong even when things are hard. She was a woman of strong faith who spent her life teaching those around her the true meaning of resilience and love.
A Celebration of Life Service in Rebecca’s memory will be held at a later date.
Arrangements are by the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory, and Florist, 5401 Highway 153, Hixson, Tn. 37343.
Please share your thoughts and memories at www.chattanooganorthchapel.com.