James (Jim) Dunn (November 11, 1947 - July 12, 2024)

In loving memory of
James (Jim) Dunn
  • November 11, 1947
  • -
  • July 12, 2024

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Obituary

James (Jim) A. Dunn, 76, died peacefully at his home in The Villages, FL on July 12, 2024. A veteran of the US Navy, Jim retired in 1993 with the rank of Senior Master Chief (Submarine Service).

Jim was born on November 11, 1947 in South Kingstown, RI to James H. and Frances S. Dunn. A sports enthusiast, he participated in many different sports while growing up and attending school in Rhode Island.  Master Chief Dunn entered the US Navy in 1966. He qualified for submarines in 1967 on USS Gato SSN 615.  He served on various submarines and served as Chief of the Boat on USS Dallas, USS Tullibee, USS Miami and USS Philadelphia.  Master Chief Dunn was the Command Master Chief of Submarine Squadron Two.  He was highly decorated and was a recipient of the prestigious Admiral Ricketts Award for Inspirational leadership.  Master Chief Dunn retired from the Navy in  October of 1993. 

Retirement didn’t suit Jim and after his career in the Navy he proudly worked at the Waterford, CT Public Library from 1993 until retirement in 2015. Outside of his professional endeavors, Jim had a true zest for life, he loved Broadway shows, traveling, cooking amazing meals for as many friends as possible and baking the most delicious desserts anyone has ever had.  However, Jim truly loved his time on the golf course. Jim was a member of the New London Country Club for over 20 years.  Upon retirement, he relocated to Florida and  joined The Critters Golf Group located in The Villages, FL.  Jim recognized his lifelong dream of hitting a hole-in-one on June 26, 2024.  

He is survived by his wife of 15 years, Pamela Dunn; his daughter, Sharon James of CT; Grandson, Joshua James of CT; brothers William Dunn of DE and John Dunn of RI; step-children Adam  Bonneville of AZ and Stephanie Bonneville of CT and his cherished nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his daughter, Melissa Lagace and his parents James and Frances. 

A military service will be held on July 23, 2024 at the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, FL at 11:00 am with a celebration of life to take place at the SeaBreeze Regional Rec Center located in The Villages, FL at 3:00 pm.  Funeral arrangements are provided by Baldwin Brothers located in Wildwood, FL.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Combat Veterans to Careers located in Wildwood, FL.

Service

Location:
Florida National Cemetery
6502 SW 102nd Ave, Bushnell, FL 33513
Get Driving Directions



Date & Time:
July 23, 2024 at 11:00 AM


Cemetery:
Florida National Cemetery
6502 SW 102nd Ave, Bushnell, FL 33513
Get Driving Directions


Combat Veterans to Careers located in Wildwood, FL.

Tribute Wall

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  1. Shannon McCarthy lit a candle:
    27 Jul 2024
    Lit since July 27, 2024 at 7:47:34 PM

  2. Joan Pennline posted an image:
    22 Jul 2024
    ❤️
    ❤️

  3. Joan Pennline lit a candle:
    22 Jul 2024
    Lit since July 22, 2024 at 7:57:31 PM

  4. Dave Stevenson says:
    22 Jul 2024
    Jimmy Dunn, COB, mentor... In my short time serving with him back in the '80s Jimmy Dunn showed me what it was to be a man. He taught me how to be responsible how to be tough and I will dearly miss him. He also taught me "only the stupid will be punished! And it's only stupid to make the same mistake twice."

  5. Joe Beasley says:
    22 Jul 2024
    We worked hard and we played hard. The playing is what I remember most. He bailed me and Thoma out of a Pascagoula jail. It was a bum rap. We sang many Irish and submarine songs at the VFW to a bewildered bunch of patrons. Jimmy was a true submariner's submariner. He forgot more about submarines than I ever knew. He was the very best. My condolences to the family.

  6. Jill D. Adams says:
    21 Jul 2024
    We all loved Jim at the Waterford Public Library. Always with a smile and always a gentleman. The staff sends their condolences to Pam and family.

  7. Peter Thielen lit a candle:
    21 Jul 2024
    Lit since July 21, 2024 at 7:43:32 PM

  8. Peter Thielen says:
    21 Jul 2024
    It was a privilege and an honor to serve with this submarine legend. Jimmy Dunn improved my life in so many ways for which i am forever grateful Jimmy’s smile and sincere dedication to every Shipmate will always live on.

    We were better men because of Master Chief Dunn.


    RIP Shipmate

  9. Tom Barnhart lit a candle:
    20 Jul 2024
    Lit since July 20, 2024 at 7:50:51 PM

  10. Tom Barnhart says:
    20 Jul 2024
    A great shipmate and friend. It was a great privilege to have know him. He taught us many things on the Tullibee and was a uniting force. I remember many times having serious discussions with him in the tunnel. We both came out from those discussions united. Too many memories of great times with him. I am sorry I didn't keep in closer touch. A great Sailor, Friend and Shipmate. God Bless. Heaven is a much better place now! I will meet you on the other side and we can continue. RIP.
    My condolences to his wife, Pam, and family, may God watch over you.

  11. Barry Suggs lit a candle:
    20 Jul 2024
    Lit since July 20, 2024 at 7:31:09 PM

  12. Thomas Wood says:
    20 Jul 2024
    RIP Master Chief.

  13. Anthony Casilli says:
    20 Jul 2024
    Pam, Sharon and family so sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
    Enjoyed spending time with Jim when he lived in Connecticut. Glad to hear that he enjoyed retirement.

  14. Bert Coons ft lit a candle:
    20 Jul 2024
    Lit since July 20, 2024 at 7:14:39 AM

  15. Bill Shafman says:
    20 Jul 2024
    So sorry to read of the passing of Jim Dunn. Such a great guy. My condolences to Sharon, Pam and the rest of his family.

  16. Stephanie Banister says:
    20 Jul 2024
    Pam and Sharon, sending much love. Uncle Jim is the source of many of my favorite childhood memories ❤️

  17. Donald Maranell says:
    19 Jul 2024
    “If we agreed all the time, one of us is unnecessary.” - MMCM(SS) Jim Dunn

    RIP COB

  18. Gerry Hazuka lit a candle:
    19 Jul 2024
    Lit since July 19, 2024 at 7:06:04 PM

  19. CDR (Ret) John Holmes, WEPS May 84-Jun 85 says:
    19 Jul 2024
    RIP and thanks for your leadership onboard SSN-597.

  20. Henry Engo (Joe S#!t the Rag Man) lit a candle:
    19 Jul 2024
    Lit since July 19, 2024 at 7:14:47 PM

  21. Henry Engo (Joe S#!t the Rag Man) says:
    19 Jul 2024
    I can't express the sorrow in my heart. He taught me much about the Navy, submarine tradition & etiquette, and life itself. His inspirational leadership helped a 20 year old impetuous boy become a decent man and a good LPO. He gave me my nickname, JSR, and I wear it with pride. I still remember... "the stupid shall be punished". I close my eyes & still see that smile. Fair winds & following seas, COB.

  22. kim clements says:
    19 Jul 2024
    my deepest sympathy to pam and her family, I am so sorry for your loss!

  23. Wayne Meyers says:
    19 Jul 2024
    My brother in arms. He stood by me through thick and thin. I will always remember our times together. No greater friend. RIP Shipmate

  24. Wayne Meyers says:
    19 Jul 2024
    My brother in arms. He stood by me through thick and thin. No greater friend of worst enemy. I will always remember our time together. RIP Shipmate

  25. MTCM/SS KEVIN J GANNS says:
    19 Jul 2024
    I remember Master Chief Dunn when he was the COB on Tulibee and stationed on SUBASE NLON.

    He will be missed, that is for sure.

    His peace be with his wife and family.

  26. Jodie Dunn says:
    19 Jul 2024
    He will be deeply missed.. Especially?
    At the annual Dunn christmas feast. He will always have a seat at the table . Love Lorraine and John's fAMILY.

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