LCDR James "Jim" Dunn Jr, USN (ret), 83, of Munford, Tn, entered peacefully into God's kingdom surrounded by loved ones on January 18th, 2024 in Gainesville, Florida. He was born July 27th, 1940, in Tillar, Arkansas.

     Jim was preceded in death by his wife, Thelma, in 2012, and is survived by his daughter, Jennifer Dunn of Jackson, Tn and his son, James Dunn III, daughter-in-law Mendy, and four granddaughters, Lauren, Olivia, Meghan, and Ava, of Gainesville, Florida.

      Upon graduation from Desha County High School in Arkansas in 1958, where he was a standout All-County basketball player, Jim enlisted 'n the US Navy in 1959. He served as an Aviation Machinist's Mate and Aircrewman in three squadrons and made multiple deployments to the Mediterranean and Viet Nam serving as aircrewman in the A-3D Skywarrior and RA-5C Vigllante aircraft. Later, he focused his talents on aviation maintenance, rising to the rank of Petty Officer First Class. Jim was selected for promotion to Warrant Officer, rising to WO-4 before becoming a Limited Duty Officer. Jim attained the rank of Lieutenant Commander before retiring in July 1989, after thirty years of honorable service to his nation. His last duty station was at NATTC Millington, and he and Thelma settled in Munford, Tn.

     Following his military service, Jim continued to work and serve in the local community. He was Instrumental in developing an Industrial Maintenance curriculum at Coahoma Community College in Clarksdale, Mississippi, and taught industrlal arts at several local prisons. Jim was an employee of Pearson Vue in Memphis for almost ten years, proctoring computer-based certification and professional exams. When not at work or church, Jim was an avid runner and active In the Memphis running scene beginning In 1980. He completed the Memphis, and Manila, Philippines marathons and twice qualified for and completed the Boston Marathon. Jim was known as fierce competitor in his age division and his lifelong love of athletics was a defining trait of his character.

     He and Thelma were active members of Munford Baptist Church, where he accepted salvation in Jesus Christ, and then at First Baptist Church, Millington.