Linda Sue Dunlap's Obituary
Linda Sue Dunlap
November 11, 1948 – July 28, 2026
Linda Sue Dunlap, 77, passed away peacefully into the arms of her Lord and Savior on July 28, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.
Born on November 11, 1948, Linda was a lifelong East Texan who dedicated her life to serving others through education, counseling, and her unwavering love for family and friends. She graduated from Livingston High School in 1967 and attended Stephen F. Austin State University, where she excelled both academically and athletically. She completed her bachelor's degree in just three years, graduating in 1970, and was proud to have been a member of the first women's basketball team at Stephen F. Austin. She continued her education as a graduate assistant and earned her master's degree in 1971.
While attending Stephen F. Austin, Linda met the love of her life, Jim Dunlap. They were married in 1969 and built a beautiful life together for 57 years. They welcomed their daughter, Brette, in 1974 and their son, Jeff, in 1977.
Linda began her career as the girls' athletic coach in Diboll before becoming a school counselor, serving the students there until 1991. She then became a counselor at Baker-Koonce in Carthage from 1991 to 1996 before becoming a Program Coordinator in Hallsville. She retired from Hallsville in 2003, and then became Coordinator of Special Programs, and later a part-time instructor/ supervisor in assisting individuals to obtain their teaching certification at the Region 7 Education Service Center. Throughout her career, Linda touched the lives of thousands of students and colleagues with her kindness, wisdom, empathy, and unwavering dedication. Her caring heart, combined with her determined spirit, ensured that every decision was guided by what was best for all children.
Even in retirement, Linda never stopped caring for those around her. She was an avid supporter and a leader in the Hallsville Bobcat Band Boosters. Students and parents knew her for always being willing and available to lend a helping hand, whatever the task. She loved cooking for family and friends, especially during the holidays, making every Christmas a treasured celebration.
Linda found her greatest joy in spending time with her family. She and Jim enjoyed traveling together, and she especially loved trips to Arizona to watch her grandson, Josh, play baseball. She cherished shopping trips with her daughter and granddaughter, playing Yahtzee with her grandchildren, spoiling her beloved fur babies, and making lasting memories with her grandchildren and great-grandson, Noah.
She is survived by her devoted husband, Jim Dunlap; her daughter, Brette Averitt and husband Scott; her son, Jeff Dunlap and wife Lisha; grandson Josh, Thomas Baker, grandson; granddaughter Kimberley Howell and husband Aaron, along with their son, Noah Howell; granddaughter Emily Averitt; grandson Cameron Averitt; niece Sharon Stone and husband Dallas; nephew Matt Ivy; niece: Kristie Kessler; nephew: Kevin Sample; nephew: John Sample; nephew: Danny Sample; niece Elizabeth Steadman and husband Darryl Steadman; nephew John Scott and wife Suzanne; and nephew James Scott.
Linda's legacy is one of love, compassion, kindness, generosity, and faith. She touched the lives of countless students, friends, and family members and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
The family asks that Linda be remembered not only for her many accomplishments, but also for the kindness she showed each day, the love she shared with her family, and her unwavering faith in her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved her.
No services are planned at this time. Memorials can be made to any organization that provides shelter and care for the homeless, or for women and children, or to the benevolence fund at the church of your choice
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