Sarah Ellen Dunaway

Sarah Ellen “Ellen” Dunaway, a devoted wife, mother, Gram, and faithful servant of God, was born on August 11, 1949, in Hereford, Texas, to Claude and Marjorie McGowen. Raised with her brother in Summerfield on the family farm, she lived a life marked by love, creativity, hard work, and unwavering faith, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished by all who knew her.

Ellen grew up with strong values rooted in family, faith, and perseverance—qualities that would guide her throughout her life. She carried those values into adulthood, where she built a life centered on caring for others and serving her community.

She met the love of her life on the campus of Eastern New Mexico University, Ron Dunaway, and the two were united in marriage on June 1, 1969. Their marriage was a true partnership built on love, dedication, and faith. Together, they raised two daughters, Taronna and Michele, who were the pride and joy of Ellen’s life. She poured her heart into being a mother, always offering guidance, encouragement, and unconditional love. Her family continued to grow with the addition of five grandchildren, each of whom she adored deeply. Becoming their Gram was one of her greatest joys, and she treasured every moment spent with them.

Ellen was a devoted member of Aldersgate Church, where her faith was not only professed but lived out daily. She was known by many as a prayer warrior—someone who faithfully lifted others up in prayer and offered comfort, strength, and hope to those in need. Her relationship with God was the foundation of her life, and she inspired others through her strength, compassion, and steadfast belief.

She had a deep love for her home and her family, where she found peace and fulfillment. Ellen especially cherished working with her hands and expressing her creativity through a variety of crafts. She had a true passion for woodworking, taking great pride in shaping and creating pieces that were both beautiful and meaningful. She also found joy in the delicate art of book folding, transforming ordinary books into thoughtful works of art. Cross stitching was another of her beloved pastimes, where her patience and attention to detail shone through every carefully placed stitch. She also enjoyed framing, giving special memories and creations a place of honor. These hobbies were more than just pastimes—they were an extension of her love, often shared as heartfelt gifts to family and friends, each piece carrying a part of her spirit.

Throughout her life, Ellen wore many hats professionally, each reflecting her strong work ethic and her heart for serving others. She worked as a teacher, where she helped guide and shape young minds. She also worked as a press operator, demonstrating diligence and skill. She worked in a local dental office and for a short time with United Supermarkets and Chick-fil-a. No matter the role, Ellen approached her work with dedication, integrity, and kindness, leaving a lasting impression on coworkers and those she served.

Ellen will be remembered as a deeply loving and selfless woman who always put others before herself. She had a gentle spirit, a generous heart, and a way of making people feel seen, heard, and cared for. Whether through her prayers, her kind words, her creative gifts, or simply her presence, she made a difference in the lives of many.

Her legacy is one of faith, love, and service. She will be dearly missed but never forgotten, as her memory lives on in her beloved husband, Ron; her daughters, Taronna (Michieal) Whitehurst and Michele Benishek; her five grandchildren, Courtney Schroeder, Kevin Whitehurst, Shelby Whitehurst, Sarah Benishek and Zachery Benishek; and her loving “little” brother Tom (Cyndy) McGowen, all who were blessed to know her.

Instead of flowers please Honor Ellen by donating to St Judes Children’s Cancer Hospital or to camp grounds she loved so much Ceta Canyon Church Camp.