James D Gunn Jr

James Doway Gunn, Jr. was born January 6, 1933 in Des Moines, IA, the son of James Gunn, Sr. and Nellie (Rife) Gunn.



James graduated from North High School and immediately enlisted in the United States Air Force. He served in the Korean conflict by processing returning soldiers as a Separation Specialist. After James' honorable discharge he returned to the States and found employment at Frye Copy Systems as a machinist. He was employed at Frye for over 35 years until his retirement.



James was married to Mevelyn "Sandy" (Drain) Gunn. Four children were born to this union; Linda, Emmitt, Dennis and Penny. Sadly, Mevelyn passed away in 2011 after 59 years of marriage. They were faithful members of Union Baptist Church.



After retirement, James kept busy fishing, watching westerns and his favorite show, "The Young and Restless". He enjoyed spending time with family and friends, and he and Bobby Washington were inseparable. As the patriarch of the family he over saw the family gatherings and he was the self proclaimed BBQ king. He had a special sauce he used on his ribs and he swore they were the best in town! He was also a pool whiz.



James answered the Master's call to rest on June 13, 2014. He was 81 years old. Waiting to welcome him on the other side were his wife, Mevelyn; his son, David Gunn; his parents, Deacon James Gunn, Sr. and Nellie Gunn, his stepmother, Florence Gunn; sisters, Geraldine Wiseman and Dorothy Thomas; and his brother, John Gunn, Sr.



Left to cherish James' memory are his children, Linda Gunn-Terrell, Emmitt (Anita) Gunn, Dennis (Kimi) Gunn and Penny Morris; his sisters, Annabelle Bradley and Joann Williams; his father in law, Clyde Drain and special friend Bobby Washington; 12 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren and 6 great-great grandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews, extended family and many friends.





Cemetery Details Glendale Cemetery 4901 University

Des Moines, IA, 50310



Funeral Service

JUN 19. 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM

Union Baptist Church

East University and McCormick

Des Moines, IA, US