Dunavant

Robert Russell Dunavant, 67, passed away on Monday, May 18 at his home in Ripley, Miss. Mr. Dunavant was born on Oct. 1, 1947 to Sherwood and Rachael Davis Dunavant in Pittsburg. He was a graduate of Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology. He was a businessman and owner and operator of a McDonald’s franchise in Ripley for twenty- seven years. He was an active member of First Baptist Church-Ripley. Services were held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 21, at First Baptist Church-Ripley with Dr. Rex Yancey and Bro. Bill Baker officiating. Mr. Bobby Martin delivered the eulogy. Burial followed in Rosehill Cemetery in Pittsburg on May 23 at 1 p.m. Mr. Dunavant is survived by his wife of forty- eight years, Glenda Bennett Dunavant of Ripley; two sons, Trent Dunavant and wife Tysha of Canyon Lake; Dr. Rusty Dunavant and wife Spring of China Springs; three grandchildren: Cade and Case Dunavant and Blake Avery Dunavant; three brothers: Ronnie Dunavant and wife Bethanne of Mount Vernon, Dixie Dunavant and wife Hope of Longview, and James and wife Angie of Rockwall; two nieces: Candace and Jennifer; five nephews: Ryan, Mitchell, Nick, Paxton, and Max. Mr. Dunavant was preceded in death by his parents. Pallbearers were: James Allen Murphy, Rayburn Jennings, Jackie Lence, Victor Crawford, Bobby Martin, and J.D. Richardson. Honorary pallbearers were members of the Joshua Men’s Sunday school class of First Baptist Church and employees of McDonald’s. Memorials in memory of Mr. Dunavant may be made to “My Choices,” 109 Balis Rd., Ripley, MS 38663; Tippah County Relay for Life, c/o Roger Childs. The Peoples Bank P.O. Drawer 419, Ripley, MS 38663; or Ronald McDonald House of Memphis, 535 Alabama Ave., Memphis, TN 38105. You may view and sign online the online guestbook at www.mcbridefuneralhome.com.