James Eugene Dunaway

James Eugene Dunaway was born September 10, 1939 in Selmer, TN the son of the late James Marshall and Maggie Ruth Hicks Dunaway. He was united in marriage to Joyce Colleen Jeter on September 15, 1961. Mrs. Dunaway preceded him in death on December 8, 2021.

At the age of 15, James Eugene was baptized at New Bethel Cumberland Presbyterian church. Later in life, he, alongside his wife, attended Sulphur Springs United Methodist Church. Mr. Dunaway worked as a mechanic and owned Dunaway Machine Shop for several years. He enjoyed piddling on small engines such as lawn mowers and 4-wheelers. He was an avid gardener, displaying a meticulous nature when it came to picking okra, insisting on a specific length. A diligent and hardworking man, he cherished pursuits such as deer hunting and fishing, relishing conversations with anyone fortunate enough to cross his path. His infectious sense of humor endeared him to many.

James Eugene Dunaway departed this life on January 26, 2024 in Selmer, Tennessee at the age of 84 Years, 4 Months, 16 Days. He is survived by three daughters, Sybil Dancer and husband Tim of Selmer, TN, Ruthie Kimmel and husband Phil of Selmer, TN, Glenda Doles of Selmer, TN; a son, Jacob Vann of Pocahontas, TN; three sisters, Reba Spellings and husband George of Florence, AL, Brenda Jordan and husband Staton of Henderson, TN, Pat Morales of Stanton, TN; brother, Jerry Dunaway and wife Barbara of Selmer, TN; sisters-in-love, Deborah Nell Blackwell, Sandra Jeter; brother-in-love, Abe Miles Jeter Jr. and wife Eyvette; nine grandchildren: Elizabeth Woolbright (David), Freddy Cruz (Chasity), Jessica Doles (Joseph Cooper), Brady Dancer, Clay Dancer, Allison Doles (Dustin Slocum), Karlee Vann, Klyde Allen and Davina Vann; seven great grandchildren: Jewel Bonilla (Arturo), Jasmine Cooper, Devin Cruz, James Cooper, Liam Cruz, Maci Cooper, and Ava Doles; a great great granddaughter, Wrenlee Bonilla; and a host of extended family and friends.

In addition to his wife and parents, Mr. Dunaway was preceded in death by a grandson, Hunter Doles; brother, Teddy Dunaway; brother-in-love, Charlie Jeter; and sister-in-love, Mary Rines.