On Monday, August 24, 2020 James Edward Dunnaway, beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, passed away at age 87.
James (better known as Jim) was born on August 28, 1932 to James and Flossie (Marriott) Dunnaway in Excelsior, MO. He lived there with his older brother, Bob and older sister, Doris. Through mutual friends, he met Lila Jean Bell. After two years of courtship, they were married on September 20, 1952. Jim and Jean had 7 children together: Steve, Laurie, Mark, Robin, Keith, Kelly and Dan. Jim worked with the United States Air Force for 37 years in logistics executive management.
Jim, or Pappy as he was affectionately called by his family, was well known for having a busy mind and body. As a younger man, Pappy loved to water ski, and could be found doing water sports or racing dune buggies. He was also a skilled leather worker, wood carver, and painter, and he enjoyed sharing those talents with his family. Later in life, Pappy could be found on the golf course most mornings, and later sitting in his favorite chair watching America’s Funniest Home Videos or a variety of game shows with his beloved wife, Jean. As a volunteer deputy with the Centre, AL sheriff’s department, Pappy served in the community for 19 years in that capacity, as well as participating in his local church congregation. Jim was an active and engaging man, well known for his love of card games, pranks and family time. Above all, Jim will be remembered for his quick sense of humor, deep love of family, and the sweet companionship he shared with his wife, Jean.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, James Ira William Dunnaway and Flossie Loraine Marriott, as well as his son, Mark Dunnaway. He is survived by his wife, Jean, his sons Steve, Keith, Kelly and Dan, his daughters Laurie and Robin, 39 grandchildren and 51 great-grandchildren.
To send flowers
to the family or plant a tree
in memory of James E. Dunnaway, please visit our floral store.