Georgiana "Millie" Mildred Dunnewold

The stars shined a little brighter on Saturday, February 3, 2024, as Georgiana Mildred Dunnewold, “Millie” as she was known to her family and friends, took her place among the heavens at the age of eighty-five. Born in 1939, in Jersey City, New Jersey, one of eight kids, but grew up in the foster care system. At age sixteen, she bravely struck out on her own, setting out on a life in which she would seize every opportunity for happiness.

The Family moved to Montrose, Pennsylvania, later to Ventura, California, and then to Jacksonville, Florida, where she found lasting love with her husband of 23 years, David Dunnewold. They traveled extensively via RV, including a year full timing. She attended concerts, wrote a travel blog, loved singing Karaoke and always enjoyed family parties and celebrations, especially when it involved dancing, and even more if it was in her honor! She loved Italian food, vodka martinis, and racy stories. She was never judgmental, always ready to accept others, and she encouraged everyone’s success. She loved doing crafts and making jewelry in her “craft room,” and was fascinated with archaeology. She loved helping people and served for several years as a volunteer at Baptist Beaches Hospital.

Millie is survived by a loving family (and her biggest fans), including her husband, David Dunnewold; brother, Robert Blanchard; daughter, Laurie Hegedus (Mark) and son, Steve Tyrrel (Lori Beechuk); along with 5 grandchildren, her grandchildren, Danielle Hegedus, Dustin Hegedus (Lexie Mannix), Marissa Tyrrel, Josh Tyrrel, and Skyler Tyrrel Lynn; and close family members Marti Tyrrel and Kevin Carter. Also included are 3 stepchildren and 6 step grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Lisa Tyrrel.

In lieu of flowers, please consider grabbing the mic at an event to sing your favorite song, wearing purple when it’s entirely inappropriate, staying out a little too late, or telling someone how much you love them. Millie would have approved, whole-heartedly.

Donations may also be made in her name to her favorite charities, St. Jude Children's Hospital and World Wildlife Fund.