John Stephen Dunaway

John Stephen Dunaway (Steve) was a man defined by the strength of his hands and the depth of his devotion. He passed away peacefully following a courageous battle with dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Though his mind and body were tested, his spirit remained anchored in his love for his wife, family, and his Savior, Jesus Christ.

Born in Joplin, Missouri, to Raymond and Sybil Dunaway, Steve's life was shaped by the loss of his father at eight years old. Raised by a faithful mother and older brothers, he learned the value of hard work and a spiritual foundation anchored in Jesus Christ — lessons that became the bedrock of his role as a husband and father.

In 1967, Steve married the love of his life, Penny Morgan, just weeks before deploying to Vietnam. He adored Penny and spent fifty-eight years finding every possible way to spoil her, ensuring she felt honored, protected, and deeply cherished. He was Penny's greatest champion and supporter. Together, Steve and Penny devoted the majority of their lives to raising their nine children.

After serving his country in Vietnam, Steve came home and gave the rest of himself to his community. He served as a fire Captain in California, taught fire science in Utah, and coached executives later in his life. He led the way he lived — with honesty, humility, and heart. 

Steve's true résumé was written in service. A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he served as a Bishop, in the Stake Presidency, and for over 25 years in Scouting. He didn't just hold callings; he lived them. His testimony of the Gospel and the Atonement of Jesus Christ was the heartbeat of his life. He lived with the firm conviction that through Christ's sacrifice, anyone could be saved, and that family relationships are eternal.

Steve was a handyman extraordinaire, he could fix and remodel just about anything. He spent many vacations framing walls, laying floors, and passing on his skills to his children. If he wasn't fixing a house, he was in the kitchen. He was famous for his cooking and holiday feasts, ensuring everyone ate like kings. His family will forever cherish the memory of him leaning over the table, asking — usually two or three times — whether they liked the food. It wasn't about the praise; it was about the joy of providing for those he loved.

He is survived by his wife, Penny; his children Angela (Bryan), Scott (Marjie), Karen (Shon), Brent (Haley), Melissa (Doug), Kyle (Chelsea), Ryan (Kara), Tyler (Stacee), and Todd (Rylie); his brothers Mark and Jim; and 36 grandchildren, one great grandson who will miss their grandfather dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents, four siblings, and his daughter-in-law, Sarah.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, April 30th, at 12:00 pm at the Riverview Church building at 624 North 2850 West, Hurricane, Utah. Interment will take place at the Southern Utah Veterans National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Southern Utah Veterans Home in memory of Steve Dunaway. Donations can be mailed to 160 N 200 E, Ivins, UT 84738.

Arrrangements are made under the direction of Hughes Mortuary, 1037 E 700 S, Saint George, UT, 435-674-5000.