Dana Dunbar-Lawhon

Dana Ava “Dan” Dunbar-Lawhon, 72, passed away on November 4, 2025, in Prescott, Arizona. Born on August 4, 1953, in York, Nebraska, Dana lived a life marked by service, storytelling and steadfast faith. Her early years in Wyoming laid the foundation for a journey that would take her across the world and into the hearts of many through her words and dedication.

Following high school, Dana enlisted in the United States Navy in 1974 where she met her future husband David Lawhon of San Antonio, Texas. During her 4 years of honorable service, she was stationed on Midway Island in the Pacific Ocean, and later in Naples, Italy. While serving her county, she completed Journalist Class “A” School, an achievement that would shape the course of her professional life. She was honorably discharged on August 15, 1978.

After her military service, Dana pursued a career as a journalist and writer. She achieved an associate’s degree in journalism from Austin Community College. She held several positions with various publications throughout Texas, where she used her voice to inform and connect communities. Her work reflected not only her skill with language but her deep curiosity about the world and commitment to truth.

Dana’s Christian faith was a guiding force throughout her life. She believed deeply in God and carried that belief with quiet strength and conviction.

She is lovingly remembered by her children: sons, Aaron Lawhon and Thomas Lawhon of Austin, Texas; and daughter Brittany Lawhon. Dana also leaves behind three siblings, Ramona Dunbar of Prescott, Arizona; Karon Rue of Curtis, Nebraska; and David Dunbar of Laramie, Wyoming. She was preceded in death by her parents, Lloyd Dunbar and Althea Masser and a sister, Janet Dunbar.

Dana’s life will be honored by her children and siblings.

May her memory bring comfort to those who knew her and loved her.