Deacon Donnie Dunbar

Deacon Donnie Dunbar, 78, of Des Moines, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at the Kavanagh Hospice House. Visitation will be held on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at Corinthian Baptist Church, in Des Moines, from 9:00 - 11:00 a.m. Immediately following visitation, his Homegoing Celebration will begin at 11:00 a.m. with Reverend Dr. Jonathan Whitfield officiating. Burial will take place at the Iowa Veteran's Cemetery at a later date.

A man of unwavering faith, dedication, and endless curiosity, Deacon Donnie Ray Dunbar lived a life of service, love, and continuous learning. Born on April 15, 1946, in Metropolis, Illinois, he was the ninth child of Clarence Henry and Francis Elizabeth (Williams) Dunbar.

As a graduate of Brookport High School in 1963 at the age of 17, Donnie enjoyed playing basketball while getting remarkable grades throughout his scholastic career.

In 1968, Donnie answered the call to serve his country by joining the U.S. Air Force. As a Jet Engine Mechanic, he was stationed in England, France, and South Carolina, where his meticulous attention to detail and problem-solving skills resulted in him scoring at the head of his class and ultimately made him a valued team member. His time in the service instilled in him a deep sense of discipline and work ethic while also fueling his passion for learning and innovation.

A lifelong learner, Donnie earned multiple degrees, including an associate’s degree from Black Hawk Community College, a bachelor’s degree in business from Western Illinois University, and a master’s degree in business administration from St. Ambrose University. His thirst for knowledge didn’t stop there—he continued expanding his expertise through numerous certifications, always striving for excellence in everything he pursued.

On October 17, 1970, Donnie married Patricia Elaine Haslam at Mount Zion Baptist Church in East Moline, Illinois. Their union was blessed with two children, Adrian and Danielle. Accepting Christ as a young man, Donnie’s faith became the foundation of his life. He served tirelessly—whether greeting members with a warm smile as an usher at Mount Zion and Corinthian Baptist Churches, providing guidance as a Deacon at Corinthian Baptist Church, or leading the Benevolent Committee with a heart full of compassion. His kindness and steady leadership made him a pillar in every congregation he was part of, always ensuring that others felt supported and uplifted.

Donnie built a distinguished career in the audio-visual and corporate technology fields. He began at Iowa-Illinois Gas and Electric Company before refining his skills at John Deere in Moline. Alongside his work, he repaired appliances at Mars Electronics, always eager to expand his expertise. His passion for innovation led him to Boston, where he became a engineering supervisor at WNEV-TV (now WHDH-TV). Upon returning to the Quad Cities, he continued his work at Silver Oaks Communications, helping to produce commercials. Donnie ultimately found his professional home at MidAmerican Energy, where he retired as a Energy Consultant manager in 2012.

Donnie was deeply involved in both the Quad City and Des Moines communities, dedicating his time to mentoring others and serving on various civic boards. He was a board member for the Metropolitan Youth Program (METRO) and the Kiwanis Club in Rock Island, IL, as well as the Rock Island-Milan School District #41 and the Rock Island Public Library. A man who valued both service and camaraderie, he was also an active member of The Royal Dukes, Des Moines Valley Golf Club, Gideon Society, and the George Robinson Scholarship Board in Des Moines—bringing together his love for golf, scholarship, and social engagement.

Donnie’s hands were always busy—whether crafting beautiful woodworking pieces that now grace Corinthian Baptist Church, and his friends and family’s homes, sinking a perfect putt on the golf course, or shooting hoops with friends. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life, especially in cheering on his son at track meets, his daughter as she performs on her cheerleading squad and his grandchildren in their sports, always encouraging them to strive for excellence.

Deacon Donnie Ray Dunbar passed away on February 8, 2025, in Des Moines, Iowa, surrounded by his family. He was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings, Clarence H. Dunbar Jr., Ollie Mae Eskridge, Thelma L. Shelton, Shirley Murray, Virginia Hester, Joann Dunbar, Paul Dunbar, Mary Lou Young, Wendell Dunbar, Larry Dunbar, and Sharon Tingle. Donnie’s legacy of faith, love, and wisdom lives on through his wife, Patricia Dunbar; his children, Adrian Dunbar and Danielle (Bryan) Mitchell; and his beloved grandchildren, Daniel Dunbar-Pollard, Adria Dunbar, and Anayah Dunbar. He is also survived by his siblings, Carolyn (Steve) Gabriel, Ricky (Georgina) Dunbar, and Pam Tyson, as well as a large and loving extended family of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Though he has departed this world, his spirit endures in the lives he touched. His wisdom, kindness, and unwavering faith will forever guide those who were blessed to know him. Donnie’s legacy is not just in the lessons he taught or the faith he shared—it is in the love he poured into his family, the mentorship he provided, and the lasting impact he made on his community.