Carolyn Lynette Reynolds Dunnam–dedicated wife, daughter, mother of four, grandmother of three, and friend of many–passed away with her loving husband by her side on Sunday, October 30, 2022 at the age of 60 in Bay Minette, Alabama, after a three month battle with glioblastoma.

Carolyn was born to Lee Jack "L.J." Reynolds and Carolyn Lancaster Reynolds in Mobile, Alabama on May 21, 1962. She graduated from Theodore High School in 1980, before attending classes at the University of South Alabama. In the fall of 1981, she met the love of her life, William “Bubba” Evan Dunnam, at a disco hosted at Springdale Mall. Just a few months later, they married on February 6, 1982 and celebrated their honeymoon in Disney World–their first of many trips. In January of 1984, they welcomed their first son, William “Lil Bubba” Evan Dunnam, Jr. In October of 1990, they welcomed and grieved the short life of their son Matthew. And in May of 1992, they welcomed fraternal twins, Andrew and Kathleen.

Through the years, Carolyn immensely enjoyed traveling, especially cruising with her husband around the world. She felt most at home when she was at the beach, reminding her of God’s presence & magnitude. Carolyn valued her many life-long friendships, as well as many once-in-a-lifetime friendships. She was a stranger to no one and found great purpose in being a refuge and safe place for anyone who needed it–her generosity was unmatched. She’s always been heavily involved in the community; volunteering with Relay For Life in Mobile, holding a director position with the Rotary Club of Robertsdale, and regularly attending at City Hope Church of Mobile.

When her husband had a life-altering stroke in 2013, she took care of him at home. When he moved into Oakwood North Baldwin’s Center for Living, she was there so much the staff and residents began to know her by name. She also made it a priority to host Alabama Football game parties for her husband with friends and family through the years. In the summer of 2020, after a series of medical events, she became handicapped herself. She moved in with her husband, for the first time in 8 years, at the nursing home, even calling their room “the apartment.” She easily transitioned into the community as a familiar face, and eventually became the Resident Council Leader, where she advocated for many positive changes for her fellow nursing home residents.

Carolyn was predeceased by her father L.J., and her son, Matthew. Carolyn is survived by her husband, Bubba; her mother and stepfather, Carolyn and Tony Odom; her brothers Lee (Rachel) and Marc; She leaves behind her children: Lil Bubba (Ashley), Andrew (Chelsey), and Kathleen Paramore (Isaiah), as well as three grandchildren, McKenna, Kalli, and Kayleb. There are several nieces, nephews, and extended family members that will miss her dearly.

In lieu of a traditional memorial service, Carolyn has requested “a big party,” just like in heaven. A Celebration of Life service will be held on Sunday, December 4 from 4-7PM, in the Gulfview Ballroom at The Lodge at Gulf State Park, 21196 E Beach Blvd, Gulf Shores, AL 36542. Family and friends are invited to come and share fond memories and stories. Heavy hors d'oeuvres and desserts will be served. Attire is dressy casual and the family encourages attendees not to wear black. Carolyn requested her remains be donated to the University of South Alabama’s Anatomical Gifts Program, and the immediate family will hold a private ceremony at a later date when her cremains become available. 

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