Daniel "Ray" Dunham of Hedgesville, WV, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, entered his eternal home with Jesus on August 23, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.  Ray was greeted at heaven's gates by his parents, Ollen Dunham and Jane Ashton Dunham; his infant twin sons, John Paul and Matthew David; his sister, Wanda Boe Dyer; and his brother, Dennis Wayne Dunham, who all preceded him in death.

He is survived by –

His devoted wife of 57 years, Dolly Cole Dunham,

son, Eric Dunham and wife, Julie,

daughters, Rayetta Michael and husband, Steve, and Abigail Bender and husband, Michael,

grandchildren, Cole Dunham, and Ashton Dunham and wife, Cheyenne; Melody Jane Mong and husband, Wyatt; Wesley Jackson, and Eliana, Talia and Micah Bender,

and his brothers, Jerry and wife, Vickie; Rex and wife, Patty; Janney and wife, Brenda, and Dale and wife, Betty Dunham.

He was an active member of both Central Chapel and Independent Bible Church for many years and also a dedicated employee at Crown Cork & Seal.  He leaves behind countless extended family members and friends whose lives were profoundly shaped by his love and faith.

To his family, Ray was more than a husband, Daddy, Pappy, or Uncle Ray – he was a steady rock, a patient teacher, a prayer warrior, and a constant encourager.  His children remember him as their biggest cheerleader, always ready with a word of pride, a strong hug, or tears of joy when their voices lifted in song.  His grandchildren recall days filled with fishing trips, hunting stories, golf cart rides, belly laughs, and lessons that reached far beyond the outdoors.  To them, he wasn't just Pappy – he was a best friend and a role model whose love and faith pointed them to Christ.

Daniel had a rare gift for understanding the heart of a child.  Where others might have been quick to punish, he met mischief with patience, humor and grace.  He carried on the legacy of his own father by becoming the joyful center of his seven grandchildren's lives.  As one grandchild loving shared, "You taught me how to be a good man, and showed everyone around you what it means to follow the Lord and fight the good fight."

As one of his children so beautifully expressed, "For the privilege of having such an incredible Daddy, I feel undeservedly blessed.  For the life ahead without him, I feel – as Daddy would often say – "We have our work cut out for us."  But because of who he was, what he taught us, and how he pointed us to Jesus, I am sure we will be okay."

Funeral Arrangements:

Viewing will be held at Central Chapel Church on Saturday, August 30th from 5 to 8 pm.

Memorial service will be held at Central Chapel Church on Sunday, August 31st at 3 pm, followed by a fellowship meal.

The address is Central Chapel Church, 2546 Back Creek Valley Road, Hedgesville, WV  25427.  Please deliver flowers there between 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM on Saturday, August 30.  Call 304-707-5859 with any questions.