Terry Jones Dunaway

Terry Dunaway, age 88, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 3rd, in Prentiss, MS. Born on June 17, 1937, in McComb, Mississippi. He was the oldest of three sons born to Walter Jones and Doris Brister Dunaway. 

Terry lived a life marked by humility, quiet strength, and a deep, abiding love for his family. He graduated from Ruth High School in 1955. He went on to further his education by attending Southwest Community College, and Colin Community College. He was a man admired not only for his work ethic, but for the way he treated others with kindness, patience, and a servant’s heart that touched everyone who knew him.

He was married for 67 beautiful years to the love of his life, Margie Dunaway. Their love was enduring and deeply rooted. Though he felt the loss of her deeply, there is comfort in knowing he has now made his way home to Heaven, where he is reunited with Margie, rejoicing together in the presence of the Lord. Terry’s faith was the foundation of his life. He was a member of Harmony Baptist Church, where he faithfully served as a deacon and Sunday school teacher. He loved the Lord deeply and he lived out his faith with compassion and humility. 

Terry had a rare and remarkable mind for figuring things out. No problem was too big, no task too complicated. He approached each challenge with patience and determination, earning a reputation as one of the world’s best problem solvers. He was endlessly curious, always learning, always working with his hands, and always finding a way. A true jack of all trades, there seemed to be nothing he couldn’t do.

He was a proud electrician by trade and spent more than 20 years working as a mechanic on oil rigs, providing faithfully for his family. Later, he brought his craftsmanship to Primos, where for 12 years he worked in woodworking, helping create duck calls with skill and care. Yet to those who loved him, his greatest title was simply “the handyman." The one you called when something needed fixing, knowing he would show up, figure it out, and never ask for anything in return.

But more than anything, Terry was a family man. He was a devoted and loving father to his daughter, Terri Dunaway Boyt, and a proud “Paw Paw” to his granddaughters, Taylor and Marley Boyt. His eyes would light up at the mention of them, and his love for his family was evident. 

For the last seven years of his life, Terry resided at the Jefferson Davis Extended Care Facility. There, he was cared for with compassion by a staff who became like family to him. Their kindness brought comfort not only to Terry, but to all who loved him. A special and heartfelt thank you is extended to his nurse, Jessica Honea, who went above and beyond in her care for both Terry and Margie.

Those who knew Terry will remember his gentle spirit, his steady presence, and the way he made life a little easier for everyone around him. He didn’t seek recognition or praise; he simply served, loved, and gave of himself freely. His legacy is one of faith, hard work, and unwavering devotion to those he held dear.Terry was proceeded in death by his parents, Walter Jones and Doris Dunaway; his brother, Glenn Dunaway; his wife, Margie Dunaway; his grandson, Stephen Brock Boyt. He is survived by his daughter Terri Boyt (Steve); his beloved granddaughters, Marley and Taylor Boyt; his brother, Phil Dunaway; his niece, Stella Applewhite; and nephew, Kenny Dunaway. While his absence will be deeply felt, his memory will live on in the countless lives he touched, the lessons he taught, and the love he leaves behind.He has now made his eternal home in Heaven, restored, at peace, and reunited with his beloved Margie, a reunion no doubt filled with joy beyond measure.

Trinity Funeral Services is honored to serve the Dunaway family and ask you keep them in your thoughts and prayers in the days ahead.