Ann Elizabeth Dunagin

Ann Elizabeth Dunagin, of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on April 23, 2025, in Oklahoma City at the age of 71. Born on May 2, 1953, in Oklahoma City to Edward James Hicks, Jr. and Flora "Christine" Hicks, Ann spent her life dedicated to serving others and bringing warmth and care to her family, friends, and community.

Ann was raised in Midwest City, Oklahoma, in a loving home with her parents and two older brothers. She enjoyed a childhood filled with family, faith, and friendships that would shape the values she carried throughout her life. After graduating from Del City High School, she went on to attend Baylor University, where she graduated with honors, majoring in Sociology and Education. She began her career as an elementary school teacher, developing creative summer learning programs to promote continued growth and education for her students. Her role as a teacher extended beyond the classroom into her church community. At First Baptist Church of Midwest City, she led Bible studies, youth groups, and summer camps, and provided individual counseling to teenagers—offering guidance, encouragement, and care to everyone she served.

She later transitioned into a career with Southwestern Bell Telephone Company, which eventually became AT&T. There, she assisted clients in expanding their businesses internationally and developed a reputation for her deep knowledge of telecommunication systems. Ann concluded her corporate career with Avaya, Inc., and went on to work independently, helping large companies in Oklahoma meet their growing communication needs.

While Ann was dedicated to her career, she always prioritized her family, her faith, and her community. At Spring Creek Baptist Church in Oklahoma City, Ann served as a leader and was elected to the first Elder Board. She played a vital role in the planning and expansion of the church building, served on pastor search committees, and was a cherished Sunday School teacher.

Ann’s love for family was woven into every part of her life. She cherished being a mother to her daughter, Sarah Elizabeth, and they shared many meaningful moments together—whether working on school projects, going on shopping outings, or simply spending time side by side. Ann, Norman, and Sarah made wonderful memories through family vacations, traveling to places like California, Disneyworld, Europe, and beyond. One of Ann’s most beloved traditions was visiting their local Sonic with Sarah during “Happy Hour,” where the two would reflect on the day and enjoy each other’s company.

Ann is survived by her loving husband, George "Norman" Dunagin; her daughter, Sarah Elizabeth Carroll, son-in-law Jeremy Ryan Carroll, and her grandchildren, Eli James Carroll and Rebecca Ann Carroll. She is also survived by her brother, Judge Edward James Hicks, III. Ann was preceded in death by her parents, Flora "Christine" Hicks and Edward James Hicks, Jr., as well as her brother, Jackson David Hicks. She is also lovingly remembered by many sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, and cousins, all of whom she loved dearly.

Ann’s legacy of compassion, dedication, and service, grounded in her deep and unwavering faith, will continue to inspire those who knew her. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of sharing in her life.

If you so desire, flowers may be sent to Bill Merritt Funeral Service, or in lieu of flowers, donations in Ann’s memory may be made to the Cure Alzheimer’s Fund at www.CureAlz.org.