John Buford Dunn

John was born in Murray County, GA to Robert Jackson Dunn and Mary Jane Thompson Dunn on October 6, 1928. He married Sylvia Mary Miles on July 4, 1969, in Christchurch, New Zealand. John served in the United States Navy for 23 years, followed by 20 years with the Federal Aviation Administration at Jacksonville International Airport. He began his military career as part of Operation High jump, the 1946 Antarctic expedition led by Admiral Byrd, and later returned there as part of Operation Deep Freeze which enabled him to meet his love, Sylvia, in New Zealand. “Big John” was widely known in his Navy years for his fast and accurate pitch, leading his softball teams to many victories and championships. He was commonly referred to as “The Imperturbable Dunn” which was only brought forth on the field, as the rest of the time he was always laughing. In 1969, he not only married Sylvia, but was also blessed with her three beautiful little daughters, becoming an instant father, and later welcoming another baby girl. After moving his big, new family to the United States, they settled in Jacksonville. John was a proud father who loved teaching and coaching his girls’ softball teams and attending any sporting events in which they participated. He also used his expert pitching arm to roll a perfect 300 in his mixed bowling league with his lovely teammate, Sylvia. John could fix or improve anything mechanical and could often be found under the hood of a car. He had a big heart for animals, taking in strays and rescues, and loyally giving financial support to local animal shelters. He was a patriot to the core; he loved his country and his family. John was known to have an indomitable spirit and never gave up on anything, especially life. He fought the good fight. We will miss him for the rest of our days.

John is preceded in death by his parents; sister, Helen Dunn; and grandson, Tyler Bernard.

He is survived by his dearly loved wife and best friend, Sylvia; daughters Lynda Cade (Vann), Donna Bernard (Jeff), Sandy McClain (Allen), and Jenna Barry (Michael); 11 grandchildren; and 2 great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, June 5th, 2023 at Hardage-Giddens, Riverside Memorial Park and Funeral Home. Funeral services will begin at 11:30 a.m. followed by a burial service with full military honors at the Jacksonville National Cemetery at 1:00 p.m.

We wish to give our sincere gratitude to the Community Hospice team for their loving care for our dear husband and father.

The family requests in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Community Hospice of Northeast Florida or the Jacksonville Humane Society.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.hgriversidefuneralhome.com for the Dunn family.