Jay Dunn

(From Parker Mortuary)

James Allan “Jay” Dunn, age 57, passed away at his residence in Asbury, Missouri, on Saturday, January 11, 2025, after a sudden illness. He entered this life on September 29, 1967, in Joplin, Missouri, the only son born to the union of Ronnie and Sue (Thornberry) Dunn.

Jay grew up in the tight-knit community of Asbury, where he was a graduate of Carl Junction High School, class of 1986. He furthered his education at Missouri Southern State College in Joplin. Jay's dedication to his craft as a machinist was evident in his long-standing career, most recently with Hix Corporation in Pittsburg, Kansas. His skill and precision as a machinist were matched only by his talent as a woodworker and craftsman, hobbies that he pursued with great joy and enthusiasm.

A lifelong resident of Asbury, Jay's roots ran deep in the community he loved. He was a devoted fan of the Minnesota Vikings, and his loyalty to the team was as steadfast as his commitment to his family and friends. Jay's laughter and stories were the heartbeat of gatherings, and his presence will be profoundly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

He is survived by his daughter, Ashley Sue Nalley and husband, Chris, of Carl Junction, Missouri; four grandsons, Jayce, Harley, Max and Ryder; his parents, Ronnie and Sue Dunn of Asbury; his wife, Rhianna Dunn; three aunts, Evelyn Hasenplaugh, Lawanda Coppenbarger and Karan Sanders; two uncles, Gary Thornberry and wife, Mary, and Kevin Thornberry; as well as a host of other family and friends. He was preceded in death by two uncles, Bobby and George Thornberry.

Funeral services are 9:00 a.m. Friday, January 17, 2025 at Parker Mortuary in Joplin, Missouri, with Pastor Jim Bowles officiating. Burial will follow at Carl Junction Cemetery. 

Those honoring his life by serving as pallbearers are Scott Purcell, Steven Hasenplaugh, Robert Hasenplaugh, Shawn Foulks, Chris Nalley and Jayce Bycroft. The family will receive friends on Thursday evening from 5-7:00 p.m. in the mortuary chapel. Arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary in Joplin, Missouri.