John Gregory Dunavant
COLLIERVILLE - John Gregory Dunavant of Collierville, TN passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by family on March 5, 2023 after a long and courageous battle with lung cancer.
He was born on March 10, 1961, to Bob and Mary Margaret Dunavant in Memphis, TN. John was one of five brothers. He graduated from Catholic High School and went on to complete his undergraduate degree at Memphis State University while working at Federal Express (as it was known back then). He quickly excelled in leadership and made a career in management at Fedex for 43 years, retiring as the Vice President of Global Vehicles in November 2022. During his management career, he completed his MBA at the University of Tennessee.
John (you may have called him Greg or JD) had passion for life, his family and for helping others. His love of sports was evident throughout his entire life, and he was so happy to share that with his children taking them to their own activities as well as sporting events all over the U.S. He loved to hunt, fish, and play golf with his family and friends. John had a passion for the city of Memphis and was actively involved with many charitable organizations. For many years he served on the Board of Directors for Memphis Athletic Ministries. He and Julie loved to travel to any beach and play golf together. He also was fortunate to be able to be “Pops” to three amazing grandsons that he loved more than life itself. His most precious legacies are his three children and all his grandchildren now and into the future. John’s sense of humor and passion for others will be greatly missed. Whatever you called him- John, Greg, or JD, he was one of the best.
John is survived by his wife, Julie Dunavant, Daughter- Kristen Hayes and husband Bubba, Sons- John Dunavant II and wife Haley; Nick Dunavant and wife Alex, Grandsons - Everett Lee Hayes, Brooks Dunavant Hayes and John Gregory Dunavant III. His brothers - Mike (Debra) Dunavant, Jeff (Janice) Dunavant, Don (Leelee) Dunavant and Bobby (Denise) Dunavant. He was reunited in Heaven with his parents.
Service to celebrate John’s life will be held on his 62nd birthday, March 10, 2023, open at 9am with service starting at 10am. Visitation will be held from 5-8 pm Thursday, March 9, 2023. Both the Celebration of Life and Visitation will be held in the Riverside Chapel at Memorial Park Funeral Home 5668 Poplar Ave Memphis, TN 38119.
In In Lieu of flowers donations may be directed to Memphis Athletic Ministries or the Fedex Family House.