Linda Sue Dunham's Obituary
Linda Dunham, age 84, entered her eternal home in heaven on February 28, 2026. Born on July 29, 1941, Linda was the only child of Marion Gaines “Gus” Gustavus and Julia Mae Gustavus. She often described her early years as happy and filled with love. It was during this time that Linda made the most important decision of her life—accepting Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior. From a young age, she was driven to excel in school—a quality that shaped her lifelong commitment to learning and to encouraging others to do the same. Linda earned her Bachelor of Science degree in 1963 from Hardin-Simmons University, graduating magna cum laude. She majored in Business Education with a minor in English. Her academic achievement was an early expression of the discipline and determination that marked her entire life. Most of Linda’s professional career was spent in the classroom and in legal service. She taught kindergarten and later high school English and Bible, sharing her love of learning and her deep knowledge of Scripture. She also dedicated many years to working as a legal secretary, where she was known for her precision, reliability, and professionalism. On December 29, 1962, she married Duane Dunham. Their marriage was a lifelong partnership of 63 years marked by devotion and shared faith. Their wedding day, along with the births of their children—Mark in 1966 and Dana in 1969—were among the most treasured moments of her life. Family was always at the center of her heart. Linda found joy in needlepoint, reading, traveling, and caring for animals. She had a deep and abiding love for animals throughout her life, showing tenderness and compassion to every creature she encountered. Africa was her favorite destination, and summers spent in Red River, New Mexico, created cherished family memories. She often said she was most at peace sitting on her patio, surrounded by beautiful plants and flowers, listening to the fountain, watching the birds, and enjoying the presence of God’s creation. Above all, Linda will be remembered for her deep love of God’s Word. She faithfully studied Scripture and shared her faith through many years of leadership in Bible Study Fellowship and Precept Upon Precept through Precept Ministries International. A devoted prayer warrior, she quietly and consistently lifted family and friends in prayer. Her encouragement, steadfast faith, and gentle strength shaped the lives of many. She is survived by her husband, Duane Dunham; her daughter, Dana Born (James); her son, Mark Dunham; her grandchildren, Lonnie Born (Chelsea), Ethan Born, Evan Born, McKenna Dunham (Lori), Amanda Dunham, and Jessica Dunham; and her great-grandchildren, Dixon Born and Baylon Dunham; and her brother in law Richard A. Dunham. She was preceded in death by her parents, Marion Gaines “Gus” Gustavus and Julia Mae Gustavus, and her great-grandchildren, Daryl James Born and Dawson Ann Born, as well as her daughter-in-law, Donna Dunham. A Celebration of Life service will be held at 10:00 on March 4, 2026, at First Baptist Church Tulsa. Visitation will take place on March 3, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Floral Haven Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or Oklahoma Baptist Homes for Children. Her legacy lives on in the faith she shared, the prayers she prayed, and the love she gave so generously.
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