John R. Dunehew

JOHN RAY DUNEHEW John was born in September 1946 in rural Pemiscot County Missouri to loving parents, SC and Mamie Dunehew. He grew up in a close-knit family surrounded by his brothers Glenn and Bill (Jane) and sisters Dorothy, Joyce, Linda (Sam) and Becky in a large Irish family. He graduated from Mizzou and was a life-long Missouri Tigers fan. John married the love of his life, the former Paula Kirtley, in 1978. John loved his children John Matthew (Becky) Dunehew, Marya Chaille (Andy) Langford, and Sean Paul (Devon) Dunehew. He adored his grand-children: Jon-Michael (Whitney), Gabe, Alex (Mariah), John Declan, Aidan, Olivia-Joy, Robert, Carolina, and Rosalie and bonus grandchildren Zachary and Tabitha. He was also cherished by 6 great-grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews. He is also survived by brothers-in-law Mike Kirtley and Brad (Jan) Kirtley.

John served in the Army for several years and retired from the lumber industry in Atlanta. He loved sports, reading (especially westerns), and wood working. John also loved Irish music, collecting kaleidoscopes, books, and knives. He was an avid Atlanta Braves fan. John will always be remembered for his quick wit, big smile, and wonderful sense of humor. He will be loved and missed but his stories will always live on.

John passed away November 29, 2024 after battling lengthy illnesses. The family would like to thank all of his caregivers for their patience and caring. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Glenn and Bill Dunehew, his sister Dorothy Grewe, and beloved brothers and sisters-in-law: Ann Dunehew, Patrick Cassidy, John Grewe, Steve Cole, and Karen Baugher.

In memory of his birthplace and where his childhood was spent, a portion of his remains will be returned to the earth in southeast Missouri. To honor his sacrifices and service to his country, his remaining ashes will be laid to rest at the Georgia National Cemetery in Canton, GA at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials in John’s honor be sent to the Atlanta Community Food Bank, Make-A-Wish Midsouth, or charity of choice.