Kathleen Dunagan

Janie Kathleen Clanton Dunagan was born on August 3, 1932, in Coffeeville, Alabama, to Lizzie Janie Etheredge Clanton and George William Clanton, Sr. The youngest of eight children, Kathleen cherished her upbringing surrounded by a loving family and a close-knit community. Independent and determined from an early age, she became the first in her family to earn a college degree after graduating from Coffeeville High School. She attended Livingston State Teacher's College, where she earned both her Bachelor's and Master's degrees.

In 1957, she married Henry Griffin Dunagan, and together they raised their children, Donette and Terry. As dedicated teachers and coaches, they touched countless young lives, nurturing not only their own children but generations of students who benefited from their care and guidance. Kathleen devoted her life to education and to helping others grow, leaving a lasting legacy of love, learning, and service.

After retiring in 1985, Kathleen and Henry enjoyed traveling throughout the United States and participating in mission trips together. In 1986, her favorite journey began when she became "Mamaw" to the first of her four grandchildren. She gave generously of her time by attending sporting events, dance recitals, and celebrating every moment, big and small. Over the years, many others came to know her as family, as she showed up for them in the same caring ways she did for her grandchildren.

Kathleen deeply loved her church and was an active member of First Baptist Church of Jackson. She faithfully served God and her church through her WMU group, Bible studies, and Sunday school class, and by supporting numerous mission projects and organizations. She served people and shared the love of Jesus through her time, her energy, and, often, a pecan pie.

Kathleen was preceded in death by her husband, Henry; her parents; and her brothers: Clyde (Joyce), Glover "Dub" (Mattie Rea), Maybon (Ruth), Little George (Ruth), Darwin (Myrtle), and Bobbie; as well as her sister, Eloise Nall.

Kathleen is survived by her children, Donette Mullinix (Tim) of Jackson, AL, and Terry Dunagan (Julie) of Birmingham, AL; her grandchildren, Judd Mullinix (Amanda) of Dallas, TX, Levi Dunagan of Austin, TX, Anna Kate Mullinix of Costa Rica, and Griffin Mullinix (Samantha) of Satsuma, AL; her great-granddaughters, Evy and Harper Mullinix; her beloved friend and sister-in-law, Patsy Clanton of Coffeeville, AL; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Kathleen and her family are grateful to Sandra Martin and Hazel Foreman, her devoted caregivers, and to Dr. Norman Stevens and Legacy Hospice for their attentive and loving health care.

In Lieu of flowers, donations may be given to Kathleen's favorite local ministry, The Alpha Women's Resource Center in Jackson. Donations may be given by indicating "in memory of Kathleen Dunagan" at the following address: Alpha WRC, P. O. Box 582, Jackson, AL 36545 or at www.alphahealthnetwork.com