James Dunkum Sr.

James Ellis Dunkum, Sr., 82 passed away peacefully on January 17, 2021.  He was born August 5, 1938, the son of James Albert Dunkum and Mamie Fulcher Dunkum.   He was a graduate of Farmville High School and Virginia State University.  Until his retirement, Ellis worked as an appeals officer for the I.R.S.   He spent many years coaching a variety of sports, including football and baseball.  Ellis’ dear wife of 58 years, Dorothy Mann Dunkum, passed in December and the family is comforted that they are now enjoying eternity together.  Ellis is survived by his beloved sister, Sarah Roys and her husband Chuck.  Ellis adored his 4 children, Kelly (John) Higgs, Jim (Sandi) Dunkum, Crystal Regnery and Eric (Tammy) Dunkum. His greatest loves were his 8 grandchildren, Shelton (Amy) and Sarah Lyda, Austin and Delton Dunkum, Cameron and Colin Regnery, Jed and Kate Dunkum.  He was especially proud to have a great-grandson, Dean, and the hope of the new great-grandson coming.  Ellis loved spending time with his close friends, having great conversations over a hand of cards, but his main joy was his regular calls to family members for updates and to give advice.  The family will receive guests Friday, January 22, from 5:00-7:00 PM at Chester Christian Church, 4330 Curtis St. Chester.  You may also join the family in celebrating his life at a memorial service on Saturday January 23, 5:00 PM at Chester Christian Church.  We ask that guests wear a mask.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Judes or to the Wounded Warrior Project.   Funeral arrangements are being handled by the Colonial Heights Chapel of E. Alvin Small Funeral Homes and Crematory 2033 Boulevard Colonial Heights, Virginia 23834. Condolences may be registered at www.ealvinsmall.com.