Pastor Donald Lynn Dunavent

Pastor Donald Lynn Dunavent, age 79, was born on September 28, 1946, passed away peacefully on July 15, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering faith, dedicated service, and wholehearted love for his family and community.

Pastor Donald's journey of ministry began at Southwestern Assemblies of God University in Waxahachie, Texas, where he attended from 1973 to 1977, earning both an Associate of Arts in Biblical Studies and a Bachelor of Science in Christian Ministry. It was during these formative years that he answered his calling, being licensed with the Assemblies of God in 1974, and ordained in 1977—the first steps in what would become over thirty years of devoted pastoral leadership. His ministry touched countless lives in congregations across the Assemblies of God, and his leadership extended to serving as a sectional presbyter in Mississippi, where he guided fellow clergy and congregants with wisdom and compassion.

Pastor Donald’s service reached beyond traditional boundaries, embodying a heart truly led by Christ. He devoted himself to those most in need, serving as both a prison and hospice chaplain, offering comfort, hope, and counsel during life’s most challenging moments. In recent years, beginning in 2009 and continuing through 2026, he became a source of inspiration to a global community through his daily online devotionals. These writings connected him with followers far and wide, spreading encouragement, faith, and unity throughout the world.

Alongside his spiritual calling, Pastor Donald took great pride in his military service, having served his country with honor in the National Guard for seven years, achieving the rank of SF-4. This commitment was a testament to his sense of duty and dedication to country and community alike.

Beyond his professional and spiritual accomplishments, Pastor Donald is lovingly remembered for his deep devotion to his family. His love for his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren was a constant source of joy and strength. He cherished special moments with his family, especially celebrating milestones with his beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Friends and family alike recall his warmth, his laughter, and his unwavering support—he was a pillar of strength and a beacon of kindness.

Pastor Donald also found great joy in bowling, a passion which followed him from his university years in Waxahachie to leagues in Dyersburg, Tennessee. His skills were recognized with first-place trophies at both, and his enthusiasm for the game was matched only by his enjoyment of the camaraderie it brought.

He is survived by his loving wife, Maxine Chandler Dunavent; his daughter, Shari Dunavent Robbins (Jeff); his sister, Linda Butler (Don); his sisters-in-law, Gracie Dunavent and Helen Dunavent; his grandchildren, Breanna Lynne Robbins Welch (Micah) and Bryton Wade Robbins (Ruthy); and his great-grandchildren, Josiah Hugh Welch, Sophia Lynne Robbins, Jordyn Olivia Welch, and Hudson Wade Robbins. Their lives, enriched by his presence, are a testament to the love and legacy he leaves behind.

He was preceded in death by his father, James L. Dunavent; his mother, Mary Evelyn Reno Dunavent; his son, Sean Patrick Dunavent; his brothers, James “Buddy” Dunavent and Bobby Dunavent; his sister, Anita Lucas; and his brother-in-law, Jerry Lucas.

To honor his life and memory, a visitation will be held on Monday, July 20, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Dyersburg Funeral Home, located at 420 US-51 ByPass W, Dyersburg, TN. The funeral service will follow at the same location at 3:00 p.m.

Serving as pallbearers will be Bryton Robbins, Shane Robbins, Keith Chandler, Jim Garrison, David Chandler, Jr. and Matt Chandler.

Pastor Donald Lynn Dunavent will be profoundly missed by all who knew and loved him. His steadfast faith, servant’s heart, and abiding love remain as enduring gifts to his family, his friends, his congregations, and the many communities he touched.