Jennifer Dunham's Obituary
Jennifer Dunham, 39, passed away surrounded by her loved ones on March 7, 2025, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. She was born on December 21, 1985, to Edward "Eddie" Dunham and Fawnita " Renee" Shindel . She was a cherished gift and answer to her sister's prayer. Jennifer was known for making real and lasting
connections with people. Whether she was brightening someone's day with a smile or sharing big laughs with friends, her warmth and kindness left an indelible mark on everyone she met.
Jennifer chose to live her life as a Christian and was baptized at the Sand Springs Church of Christ on
August 2, 1995. Growing up in Sapulpa, she attended Pretty Water Elementary School and participated in many different sports and other activities. She graduated from Charles Page High School in Sand Springs, then went on to receive a Bachelors Degree at Oklahoma State University.
As a proud OSU student, Jennifer was an active member of the Chi Omega Sorority, where she formed lifelong friendships with her sorority sisters. The fashion industry is what fueled Jennifer's interest. During her time at OSU, Jennifer interned with Heidi Merrick in Los Angeles. She also had the opportunity to study abroad in Europe.
Once, as a young girl, Jennifer was asked what she wanted to do when she grew up. Her answer: "Travel and be nice to people." She did just that! After college Jennifer earned a cosmetology degree and boldly move to New York City, trips to Rome, Washington DC and many other excursions with family and friends--Jenn was always up for adventure and new experiences. In New York, she immersed herself in the vibrant energy of the city and put her talents to work at prominent NYC brands like Aerie and Tory Burch.
After almost 10 years in New York, her family welcomed her back. She started working with her dad, eventually partnering with him in a trucking company that was an extension of his business. With the skills she had developed in metal working and design, combined with her dad's skills in rock tumbling, they also made beautiful jewelry together.
Jennifer and her mom shared a unique bond throughout her entire life that only grew stronger. Forever friends. She enjoyed introducing her to her favorite places and new found friends during her visits to New York. Jennifer loved her sister Stephanie, treasuring the inside jokes that only they knew, and her brother-in-law Cody. Becoming Aunt Jennie to their children--Nolan, Rosalie and Clive--was icing on the cake!
She thrived in anything creative, making the world around her more beautiful and fun. She used her skills as a fashion designer to make a few wedding dresses for sorority sisters, a hair stylist, gardener and painter--she had an eye for design in all its forms and a lifelong desire to learn.
She made Tulsa her home, adopted her schnauzer, Freddie then Yorkie Poo, Rizzo.
Jennifer's bright spirit and loving heart will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her legacy of kindness, warmth and love will continue to inspire everyone she touched.
Jennifer is preceded in death by her father Edward Dunham, and her adoring grandparents, Norwood and Nina Dunham, and Don and Frances Pippin
She is survived by her loving mother, Renee Shindel; sister Stephanie Byrd, and her husband Cody Byrd; their children; Nolan Byrd, Rosalie Byrd and Clive Byrd; stepfather, Paul Shindel; stepmother, Theressa Dunham; stepsisters, Amanda Malock , Rebecca Shindel, Stephanie Andre and Sara Johnson; stepbrother Steven Sexton, and numerous extended family members and dear friends. Along with her beloved pups, Freddie and Rizzo.
Funeral service will be held Friday, March 21, 2025 at 1:00 PM at Sand Springs Church of Christ (4301 S 113th W Ave, Sand Springs, OK 74063)
A reception will follow the service
The interment will take place at Floral Haven Memorial Gardens - Garden of Devotion at 3:30 PM
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Share a story where Jennifer's kindness touched your heart.
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