Dorothy Elizabeth Dunham, 96, of Peoria, IL passed away Monday, February 29, 2016 at the
home of her daughter, Carol Cadle, of Peoria.

She was born on August 24, 1919 near Fountain Green, IL the daughter of Roy and Leta Bowen Eddington. On March 30, 1940 she married Richard Dunham in Jefferson City, MO. He preceded her in death on August 11, 1971.

Dorothy was the Librarian at the Limestone Walters Grade School, Peoria for many years and also had served as assistant librarian in Brimfield, IL. On May 15, 1983 she graduated from Illinois Central College with an Associates Degree in Arts and Science. While working toward her degree, she attended classes with her daughter and grandsons. She had the unique experience of graduating from college with her oldest grandson. She taught adult literary at Common Place in Peoria for many years and was honored with a Spotlight on Service award in 2003 for her work, by Illinois Secretary of State, Jesse White. Before moving to Peoria, she was a charter member of the Hancock County Club 16 and the Hancock County Home Extension. In Peoria, she belonged to Limestone Walters Mothers Club and was instrumental in establishing the library and the hot lunch program, was treasurer of the High School band boosters and served as den mother for the local scout troop. She was also a member of the Glen Oak Christian Church of Peoria.

She is survived by three sons, Scott (Colleen) Dunham of Peoria, Earl (Valerie) Dunham of Edina, MN and Rex (Dhara) Dunham of Auburn, AL, two daughters, Carol Cadle of Peoria and Dixie (John, deceased)Thompson of Glasford, IL. She was loved by many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.
Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents, husband and one infant sister, Lolita Joan Eddington.

A visitation with the family will be held from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. Sunday, March 6, 2016 at the Glen Oak Christian Church in Peoria. The funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. March 7, 2016 at the church with Rev. Randy Williams officiating. Burial will be held in the LaHarpe, IL Cemetery at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, March 8, 2016. A memorial fund has been established for the Glen Oak Christian Church Living Gifts & Memorials and the Unity Point Hospice. Banks & Beals Funeral Home in LaHarpe is in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be left at banksandbeals.com. .