M. Dunn
In Memory of
M. Gilbert "Gil"
Dunn
1949 -
2017

Obituary for M. Gilbert "Gil" Dunn

M. Gilbert Dunn, until recently, a member of the Department of Sociology at Roanoke College, died August 18, 2017 in Salem, Virginia. Gil joined the Roanoke faculty in 1993 after teaching at Virginia Commonwealth University, the University of Southern Mississippi and in Iceland, Italy and Germany with the University of Maryland University College Europe. He graduated in 1971 from Ohio Wesleyan University and earned a M.A. from Tulane University and a Ph.D. from the University of Virginia. Born on February 9, 1949 in Murray, Kentucky, he was raised primarily in Delaware, Ohio. He was the son of Van Bogard Dunn and Geraldine Hurt Dunn, who predeceased him.
A star athlete in multiple sports in high school, Gil retained his interest in athletics, as well as religion, theory, and mass communication. He spent extensive time researching and teaching on the 1925 Scopes trial in Dayton, Tennessee, which addressed the legality of teaching evolution. He was particularly proud to have helped establish the Nu chapter of Phi Beta Kappa at Roanoke College in 2004.
He is survived by three loving sisters, Susan K. Dunn, Charleston, South Carolina.; Sheila M. Dunn (William Sperling) of Whidbey Island, Washington; and Joan Dunn Solomon (Saul) of Nashville, Tennessee.; as well as seven nieces and nephews. Gil will be missed by his family, friends and students.
Gil’s family invites you to an open house remembrance gathering on Thursday, August 31, 2017 between 5 and 7 PM at Gil’s residence at 147 Academy Street, Salem, Virginia. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the American Civil Liberties Union.
An online guest book is available for family and friends by visiting www.johnmoakey.com.
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