Polly Gene Dunham, née Osborne, passed away peacefully on June 4, 2025, just one week before her 78th birthday. Born in Shoffner, Arkansas, Polly spent most of her life in nearby Newport, where she was cherished for her quiet strength, kind heart, and warm smile.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Willard Dunham; her parents, Hazel and Sam Osborne; her brothers, Bobby Osborne and “Sammy” Osborne; her sister, Oleta Alcorn; and her great-granddaughter, Parker Willett.
Polly leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion. She is lovingly remembered by her children, Catherine “Cathy” Dunham, Billy Dunham, and Scotty Dunham; her grandchildren, Porshia Dunham, Maddox Moreland, Jaeden Moreland, Carol Barker, Selena Thompson, Dallas Dunham, Dalton Dunham, and Austin Dunham; and her great-grandchildren, Kaziah Pruitt, Kylee Willett, Tripp Barker, and Jaxson Thompson.
She is also survived by her devoted siblings: Helena McBride (Preston), Ruth West, Loreta Crawford (Donald), Thelma Reed, Troy Osborne, and Margret Holt.
Polly found joy in life’s simple pleasures—working word puzzles, watching game shows, collecting porcelain dolls, and playing bingo with her great-grandkids. A woman of few words but endless kindness, Polly’s gentle presence brought peace and comfort to all who knew her.
“What a privilege it has been to have you in our lives. There is so much gratitude in knowing that we will always be yours, and you will always be ours. Our promise to honor your life remains true. Rest easy, our angel, until we meet again.”
—With love, your children
The Dunham family extends heartfelt thanks to all who showed care, patience, and love to Polly during her final days. Your kindness will never be forgotten.
Service will be at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, June 9, 2025, at Dillinger Funeral Home chapel. Visitation will be from 5:00-7:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 8, 2025. Interment will be at Mt. Zion Cemetery.
