Madeline Elizabeth Trotman

Deaconess Madeline Elizabeth (Eason) Trotman

With love and reverence, we celebrate the life of Deaconess Madeline Elizabeth (Eason) Trotman. Our beloved matriarch whose strength, grace and unwavering faith shaped generations.

She was the heart of her family. A woman who embodied love, resilience, and quiet elegance. Known for her strong work ethic and steadfast spirit, she carried herself with a class and dignity that left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

Deaconess Madeline Elizabeth (Eason) Trotman, 94, of Waterbury, Connecticut, cherished widow of Deacon Milford L. Trotman, passed away peacefully on April 14, 2026, entering into eternal rest. She was born September 4, 1931, in Hobbsville, North Carolina, to the late Charlie and Mary (Winslow) Eason.

At the age of fourteen, she relocated to Connecticut with her brother and sister-in-law, Herman and Sereatha Eason. She married Deacon Milford L. Trotman on September 29, 1951, and they shared 40 years of marriage together.

She was educated in the Waterbury school system and, after graduating from Leavenworth High School, went to work at Uniroyal in Naugatuck, Connecticut. After retiring, she devoted her time to serving as a foster grandparent with New Opportunities, Inc. She also enjoyed doing crossword puzzles and crocheting.

A devoted servant of the Lord, she lived out her faith daily pouring into others with compassion and purpose. She was a lifelong member of Zion Baptist Church in Waterbury, Connecticut. For over 70 years at Zion Baptist Church, she served faithfully in various ministries. She served diligently as a Deaconess, a member of the Senior Usher Ministry, Advisor to the Junior Usher Ministry, Nurse’s Aide Ministry, and a dedicated member of the Kitchen Committee. She devoted countless hours to cooking, expressing her love and care through the delicious meals she prepared for celebrations and moments of comfort. Her commitment to God not only guided her life but became the foundation upon which her family’s faith was built. Through her example she inspired those around her to walk in love, humility and trust in God.

As a loving wife she stood faithfully by her husband’s side, offering care, strength and tenderness, especially during times of illness. Her devotion was a true reflection of enduring love and partnership.

She led with kindness and warmth, never meeting a stranger. Her home and her heart were always open. Everyone she encountered was welcomed like family, embraced with genuine love and a comforting presence that made people feel seen and valued.

Her legacy is one of faith, love, sacrifice and grace. She leaves behind a family rooted in the values she lived so beautifully and a community that was better because she was in it.

She will be lovingly remembered by her children: the Honorable Mayor Deborah Whitfield of Lawrence, Indiana; Pamela Trotman-Walton of Waterbury, Connecticut; Sidney (Laurie) Trotman of Bristol, Connecticut; and Travis (Ana) Trotman of Waterbury, Connecticut; her sister, Frances Lamb of Virginia; her godson, Kevin Trotman of Bristol Connecticut; her 11 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren; four sisters-in-law; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

Deaconess Trotman was predeceased by her husband, Deacon Milford L. Trotman; also, her siblings: Lessie Mae Goodman, Marie Eason, Savannah Williams, Alma Byrd, Herman Eason, Tom Eason, Lester Eason, Floyd Eason, Melvin Eason, Shelton Eason, Dallas Eason, and Bernice Eason; and two sons-in-law, Ashland Whitfield and Gregory Walton.

Deaconess Trotman will be deeply missed, forever loved and always remembered.

A celebration of Deaconess Trotman’s life will be held on Tuesday, April 28,2026 at 11 a.m. at Zion Baptist Church, 137 Pearl Street, Waterbury CT. Viewing hours from 10-11 a.m. Interment to follow at New Pine Grove Cemetery. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Colonial Funerals, 270 West Main Street, Waterbury, Connecticut and James R. Sanders, Funeral Director. Condolences may be expressed at Colonialfunerals.com.

The service will be live streamed at https://www.facebook.com/zionwtby