Joanne Fulks Dunaway

Joanne Dunaway, widow of James Ray Dunaway and daughter of the late John Fulks and Elizabeth Costill, was born in Philadelphia, PA on March 12th, 1948 and departed this life on April 30th, 2025 at her home in Lexington, KY surrounded by her immediate family at age 77.
She is survived by one daughter, Carrie Graves (Ben) of Lexington, KY; three sisters Judy Spicer (Tom) of Beattyville, KY; Pam Fulks (Nancy) of Lexington, KY; and Pearl "Sug" Combs (Butch) of Berea, KY. Additionally she is survived by a host of nieces, other relatives, and friends. She is preceded in death by her husband, Jimmy, and her parents.
She was a talented, strong, and ambitious force of life as a wife, mother, sister, friend, and leader. She was a graduate of Lee County High School and ran a successful trucking business with her husband for over 46 years. She also operated a beautiful bed and breakfast here locally, which hosted people from all parts of the country offering rest and relaxation.
Joanne was a community leader and a visionary. She tirelessly served her community as a council member and carried an unwavering commitment to the betterment of Beattyville. She was instrumental in launching the original 911 system in Lee and Breathitt Counties. She relentlessly worked to support established businesses in the community while supporting new business development along the way. She shaped the restoration of the old City Hall. She sat on various organizational boards locally as well throughout the state including Hospice Care Plus, the Kentucky League of Cities, the Eastern Kentucky Heritage Monument Advisory Board, and the Beattyville, Lee County Chamber of Commerce among many others. She spearheaded the establishment of the Beattyville Main Street/Downtown Beattyville Alliance, adding beauty to the community that continues to flourish today. She played an instrumental role in the inception of Highway 52, the 4th of July Yard Sale, the Big Red Dumpster Drive, the Pedals and Blooms Bicycle and Arts Festival, Trick or Treat on Main. She played a pivotal role in securing grants for funding of many much-needed community improvements programs.
Joanne always had a smile on her face and a keen sense of humor. Her kindness had no boundaries, however she was quick to let her feelings be known. She especially loved playing cards and basket-weaving, creating a priceless fellowship with family and friends. Her baskets were a work of art and hold a special place to all who received them. She loved birds, yard work, and home decoration. She was an extraordinary example of thoughtfulness, goodness, and grace. Our hearts are broken with the loss of your physical presence here on earth, we find solace in knowing you are reunited with our Heavenly Father, no longer suffering, finally at peace. We will carry you in our hearts all the days of our lives.
He said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die". John 11:25 NIV
A private celebration of life will be held at a later date.