Donita C. Hotchkiss

Donita C. Hotchkiss, 93, of Topeka, passed away comfortably Sunday, May 11, 2025 after spending the weekend surrounded by her children and grandchildren with the birds chirping peacefully outside of her window. It was only fitting to conclude her career as “World’s Greatest Mom and Grandma” on Mother’s Day.

She was born December 9, 1931, in Melvern, Kansas, the daughter of Vincent and Agnes (Andre) Young. She was a 1949 graduate of Melvern High School.

Donita married James Donald Hotchkiss on April 22, 1950. He preceded her in death on May 16, 1994, and they have now been reunited almost 31 years to the day.

Survivors include three children: Linda Sue Hotchkiss, Randal James Hotchkiss, and Gayla Jo Moon-Burgess and her husband Allen Burgess, all of Topeka; two grandchildren, Carly Dawn Moon-Warnick and her husband David Warnick, and Tyler James Moon and his wife Ericca Watson; three great-grandchildren, Trenton Watson, Nolan Moon, and Westin Moon; two step-grandchildren, Heather Moon and Jamie Moon; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents and eight siblings: Orpha, Eunice, Laurice, Janice, Andre, Victor, Martin, and Duane. With her passing, the circle is complete—the Young siblings are together again.

Clever, independent, and quietly powerful, Donita lived 93 years with grit, grace, and a sweet tooth. She loved spending time with family, and dedicated her life to her grandchildren, spoiling them with endless trips, outings, and lunches at Taco Casa, Long John Silvers, and Mr. Goodcents. Her kitchen was the heart of her home, where she effortlessly brought everyone together with her cooking, with holiday meals being the cornerstone of her legacy. A proud farm-style cook, her deviled eggs and mac and cheese ruined every other version for all. She loved watching birds from her back window, cross-stitching and coloring, and was an avid KU basketball fan.To know her was to love her. To be fed by her was to be spoiled for life. She was our matriarch, the coolest Grandma ever, and an absolute legend. Her long life was a testament to bringing people together, and even in the end without the cooking she still managed to bring us all together.

Honoring her request, cremation is planned. No services are scheduled.

Parker Price Cremations, Funerals & Receptions in Topeka is assisting the family.

Memorial contributions may be made to Midland Care, 200 SW Frazier Circle, Topeka, KS 66606.

To share a memory of Donita or leave a special message for her family, visit the guestbook below.