In Loving Memory of Meagan Turner
It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we share the heartbreaking news of the passing of Meagan Turner, age 32, whose life was tragically cut short after she was found deceased in the Red Cedar River last week. The East Lansing Police Department (ELPD) has since identified Meagan, a bright and dedicated doctoral candidate from Canada who had been pursuing her Ph.D. at Michigan State University. Her untimely death has left a void in the hearts of her family, friends, and the entire MSU community.
Meagan was a brilliant scholar and a compassionate soul, known by her peers for her intellectual curiosity, kindness, and unwavering drive to make the world a better place through research and service. Those who knew her describe her as someone whose passion for knowledge was only matched by her warmth and generosity. Whether she was mentoring undergraduate students, collaborating with fellow researchers, or lending a listening ear to a friend in need, Meagan embodied empathy, integrity, and grace in all she did.
Born and raised in Canada, Meagan carried with her a deep sense of humility and dedication that defined every chapter of her life. Her academic journey led her across borders to pursue advanced studies in her chosen field, where she quickly became a respected member of the Michigan State University community. Professors and classmates alike remember her not only for her academic excellence but also for her kindness and willingness to uplift those around her.
Beyond the classroom and the lab, Meagan was a lover of the outdoors, finding peace and inspiration in nature. She often spoke about her love for hiking, photography, and travel — simple joys that reflected her adventurous spirit and her appreciation for life’s quiet beauty. Friends recall her laughter, her ability to find light in difficult times, and her steady belief that kindness could change the world in small but meaningful ways.
Her passing has sent ripples of grief through both her home community in Canada and her adopted home in East Lansing. As investigators continue to look into the circumstances surrounding her death, those who loved Meagan are choosing to honor her memory by remembering the life she lived — one marked by brilliance, compassion, and purpose.
In the coming days, Michigan State University is expected to hold a memorial service to celebrate Meagan’s life and contributions to the academic and student communities. Faculty, friends, and loved ones are invited to gather, share memories, and find comfort in unity as they remember a life that, though far too brief, touched so many others.
To Meagan’s family, friends, colleagues, and mentors — may you find solace in knowing that her light continues to shine through the countless lives she inspired. Her legacy will endure not just in her academic achievements, but in the kindness, thoughtfulness, and empathy she showed to everyone around her.
May her soul rest in eternal peace.
In loving memory of Meagan Turner (1993–2025)
Gone too soon, but forever remembered.
