James Lloyd Dunlavy

Jim Dunlavy filled his life with family, friends, laughter, and stories. He was a true Southsider with unconditional love for Chicago, the Mount Carmel Caravan, the Marquette Warriors (forever), the Bears, and the White Sox. He inspired us with his integrity and always chose to do what was right, even when it was difficult. He welcomed every new acquaintance as a friend.

Jim was a devoted husband to Peggy, his beloved wife of 61 years, and a loving father to Colleen, Tim, Eileen, Kevin, and Danny, as well as 10 grandchildren and great grandchildren. Known as Jimmy to his cousins, he was a proud Uncle Jim to numerous nieces and nephews and referred to by many others as Mr. D.

He grew up in St. Philip Neri parish with his parents and brothers Billy, John, and Bob, attended Mount Carmel High School and then Marquette University, where he studied history. After college, while raising a young family, he served in the National Guard. Jim and Peggy raised their family in Hazel Crest and then made their home in Flossmoor, which became known as Grandma and Grandpa's house. Jim was a long-time parishioner and leader at St. Anne's Catholic Church.

An avid reader and lifelong learner, he was especially good at math, trivia, and crossword puzzles. He always took time to figure out how to fix things that were broken. He taught his kids by example (and the encyclopedia).

Jim was an insurance salesman, and a good one, but his passion was his family and friendships. He was a gifted teller of stories and jokes. He belted out Irish songs while swinging his fist – until his very last moments on Earth – and jitterbugged with Peggy like a pro. He lived 84 years and never met a cookie he didn't like. We know he is greeting everyone in heaven with a big smile and the exuberance he always had simply for being alive.

Jim Dunlavy was a gift to all who knew him, and he lives on in our hearts.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift to Good Shepherd Manor, www.goodshepherdmanor.org