Doris C. Dunaway, affectionately known by all as “Granny D,” passed away peacefully on September 30, 2023, in Marianna, Florida. Born on July 19, 1929, in Cypress, Florida, to the late Amos and Allie Clark, Doris lived a life full of love, kindness, and faith.
Doris was a proud graduate of Grand Ridge High School. She dedicated over 30 years of her life serving as a Psychiatric Aide at the Florida State Hospital. Her commitment to helping others did not stop at retirement. Doris continued to serve her community by working at Walmart and providing in-home healthcare. Her work ethic and dedication to service were an inspiration to all who knew her.
Doris was a woman of many interests, but her love for fishing and spending time with her family were paramount. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life, and her love for her family was evident in everything she did. Her home was always filled with laughter, love, and the smell of her famous home-cooked meals.
Doris was preceded in death by her parents, Amos and Allie Clark, her beloved husband, Rubin Dunaway, and her sons, Ted Ryals Dunaway and James Randell Dunaway. She is survived by her sons, Norman Dunaway (Carol), Fred Dunaway, Donnie Dunaway (Becky), Ricky Dunaway (Donna), and Michael Dunaway (Lisa Coker). She also leaves behind her daughter-in-law, Tawana Basford Dunaway. Doris, or “Granny D” as she was lovingly known, will be greatly missed by her 37 grandchildren, 42 great-grandchildren, and 15 great-great-grandchildren.
Doris was a woman of faith, and her kindness was felt by all who knew her. She was the embodiment of the quote by Mother Teresa, “Spread love everywhere you go. Let no one ever come to you without leaving happier.” Doris lived these words every day, spreading love and joy to all she met.
Doris’s life was a testament to the power of love, kindness, and faith. She was a beacon of light in the lives of her family and friends, and her legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be remembered for her unwavering love for her family, her dedication to her work, and her kind and loving spirit.
In the words of her family, “Granny D was the heart of our family. Her love, kindness, and faith were the glue that held us together. We will miss her dearly, but we find comfort in knowing that her love will continue to guide us.”
Doris C. Dunaway was a remarkable woman who touched the lives of many. Her memory will forever be cherished by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Doris’ family would like to thank all the nurses and staff at Marianna Health and Rehabilitation Center and Emerald Hospice for the care they provided for her over the last five years.
Flowers will be welcomed by the family or in lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be sent in memory of Ms. Doris “Granny D” to Emerald Coast Hospice (3015 Jefferson Street, Ste C & E Marianna, FL 32446).
A Celebration of Doris’ life will be held in the chapel of McAlpin Funeral Home on Friday, October 6, 2023, beginning at 11:00 AM Central Time. Interment will follow at Cedar Grove Cemetery in Bascom, Florida. Visitation will be held at 10:00 AM Central Time one hour prior to service.
