Jimmy Lee Dunham

Jimmy Lee Dunham, 75 of Grantsboro, passed away September 7, 2021 at Vidant Medical Center after a tragic car accident.

Jimmy was born November 18, 1945 to Clyde C. Dunham Sr. and Lilla Allen Dunham of Kinston. Jimmy was the youngest of four children, Clifton Clyde Dunham, Robert Dunham, Betty Jean Wright.

He married Dolores Ireland in 1973 and had four children together & nine grandchildren.  They were happily married until her death in 2019.

Jimmy, who his wife often called “Fred” because of his strong resemblance to Fred Flintstone, was a devoted Husband, father and Papa.  Serving 23 years in the US Navy he traveled worldwide. Coming from a longline of family mechanics, he also opened his own Mechanic shop where he worked on motors of all kinds for many years.  Working on cars and racing them where both an enjoyable pass time.  After retiring in 1988 he developed a strong passion for collections of many kinds.  His shop became a large showroom where he was often proud to display his many Hot Wheel Cars & other collectibles for others to enjoy.

If he wasn’t tinkering in his shop, working in the yard, riding around looking for old Cars, or eating out, you could most likely find him at some type of ball game or any event supporting his many Grandkids.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 47 years, Dolores.  His parents Clifton Clyde & Lilla Allen Dunham. siblings: Clifton Dunham, Robert Dunham & Betty Jean Wright, Great grandson Avion Atkins.

He is survived by his children: Stewart Dunham (Paula), Trudy Dunham, Kimberly Hiatt (Jay) Matthew Dunham and nine grandchildren, Kenly, Trent, Alyssa, Angel, Jacie, Marley, Brianna, Bryce and Westin.

His funeral service will be held 2:00 p.m., Sunday, September 12th at Bryant Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Billy Hacker officiating. Interment will follow immediately in Grantsboro Cemetery with military honors.

The family will receive friends and relatives one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.