Denise Dunham

Denise Marie Dunham, 78, of Summitville, IN went to her heavenly home January 12, 2025. Denise was born August 30, 1946 to the late James and Wilma Phillips Dadiras. She was preceded in death by her brother, Nick Dadiras, and sister Kathe Wright. She is survived by her beloved sister and lifelong friend Vickie (Larry) Gibson of Ft. Wayne, IN.

She met the love of her life through her friend and future sister-in-law Cynthia Pyle of Kokomo, IN. She married James Harley Dunham Sr. on May 28, 1969 and they spent 55 years together; he survives and remained by her side until her passing. Denise was a devoted wife and mother, who loved nothing more than making holidays special events for her family through her love of gift giving.

She is survived by her two sons; James Dunham Jr. of Summitville, IN and Jason (Tricia) Dunham of Fairmount, IN. Along with 8 grandchildren: Deanna (Juan) Regalado of Rothbury, MI, Kaylee Dunham of Indianapolis, Harley Dunham of Athens, TN, and Olivia Dunham of Summitville, IN, as well as Boaz Dunham, Haddie Dunham, Jude Dunham, and Zipporah Dunham of Fairmount, IN. Along with 3 great grandchildren Mona, Leo, and Ace Regalado. Additionally, 'Nene' is survived by her two other children Kyle (Britnee) Van Matre of Fairmount, IN and Erica Gipson of Bonaire, GA. Denise was dedicated to her family and is survived by many nieces and nephews with whom she had special relationships.

Denise was dedicated to the Lord and through many decades served him in many capacities from children's ministry and being a board member at Back Creek Wesleyan, or helping with youth ministry at Nelson Street Wesleyan, or simply making special friendships through Bible Studies and Sunday School classes at Fairmount Wesleyan. No matter where she was, Denise authentically loved people and made friends easily due to her joy of life, sense of humor, quick wit, and hospitality. This love of people led to her earning a B.S. in Social Work from Ball State University and spending the latter part of her career serving many different clients from various walks of life.

Services for Denise will be held at the Fairmount Chapel of Armes-Hunt Life Celebration Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 415 S. Main Street, Fairmount, Indiana. Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 23, 2025 from 4-7 PM. Funeral service celebrating Denise's life will be on Friday, January 24, 2025 at 1 PM with Pastor Aaron Chester officiating. Burial will follow at Park Cemetery in Fairmount.

Memories and condolences may be shared at www.armeshuntfuneralhome.com