Marie Dunlap

Marie Dunlap was born on February 14, 1943, in Marked Tree, AR.  She passed away on January 14, 2023, just one month shy of her 80^th birthday.

She was born to Earnest Oldman and Readie Brooks, and grew up in a large family in Harrisburg, AR.  She met Dale Dunlap in 1961 on a blind date, and they married on August 16, 1964. They welcomed two children, Shon and Renessa, and settled into life in Lepanto, AR.

Marie was extensively involved in her community as a member the Chamber of Commerce, Sunday School teacher at the First Baptist Church, participating in volunteer work, as well as working alongside her husband in their small-town grocery store. She played an integral part in revitalizing the annual Terrapin Derby, and was instrumental in helping with The Painted House movie and museum.

Marie immediately lit up a room, never met a stranger and made such an impact on so many people.  She was a joyful presence, loved her friends and family and filled her home with warmth and kindness.  She was one of a kind, and to be loved by her was a gift. She will be desperately missed by all.

Marie (or Meme) as she was known by her grandchildren, unselfishly and unconditionally loved her family more than life itself. She supported them through highs and lows, guiding them with love not judgment. Her family was her sole focus, and she worried over and took care of them until the end. The legacy of love that she leaves behind, and the impact she had on others cannot be emphasized enough.

In her free time, you could find her playing dominos, putting together puzzles, watching her beloved Razorbacks, cheering on her grandkids at their various pastimes, and spending time with family.

She is survived by her husband, Dale Dunlap of Lepanto, her children, Shon (Carolynn) Dunlap and Renessa (Greg) Fontenot, and her grandchildren Caleb, Emma, Jake and Will Dunlap, and Clayton Fontenot.  She is also survived by her siblings Mae Elliot, Billie (Pete) Czech, Larry Oldman, Lynda (Bob) Lewis, Alan (Lesia) Oldman, and Jeannette (Mike) Clem, in addition to a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Marie was preceded in death by her parents, Readie Brooks and Earnest Oldman, and her siblings, John Oldman, Rita Lancaster, and Bobby Oldman.

A celebration of her life will be held at Delancey Funeral Home, Lepanto, AR on Wednesday, January 18^, 2023 at 10:00 A.M.