Les H. Dunnings

Les Dunnings took flight on the wings of an eagle on Saturday, June 13, 2026, entering into eternal rest. Born June 16, 1943, in Huntington, West Virginia, he was the son of the late Odessa Dunnings and Floyd Howard. He was preceded in death by his grandmother, Elvie Dunnings; twin sister, Celeste; brothers Clifford Alexander, Marcus Alexander, Luther Dunning-Reynolds, and David Alexander; sisters Eda Dunnings and Anna Dunnings; and cousins Mary Elizabeth Sanders and Ginger Bob Harris.

Les was a devoted family man, a faithful servant of God, and a dedicated worker. After graduating from Cabell County public schools, he briefly worked in the coal mines of West Virginia before deciding the work was not for him—it was too dirty, and there were no women around to appreciate how handsome he looked. Truth be told, there was not a Dunning boy born who did not know he was a handsome man. He later moved to Columbus, Ohio, where he began a career with the sanitation department and retired after 27 years of service, advancing through the ranks.

A man of deep faith, Les served as a Deacon at Bibleway Church and later worshiped at Friendship Church. He loved the Lord, his family, and all things beautiful. Known for his impeccable style, he was rarely seen without a sharp suit and a pair of Stacy Adams shoes. One of his greatest joys was gathering with family after church to share stories, sing gospel songs, laugh, and celebrate God's goodness around the table.

Family was at the center of Les's life. Though many of his siblings remained in West Virginia, he stayed closely connected to his cousins and extended family in Columbus. His daughter Felicia fondly remembered spending her childhood surrounded by cousins, running in and out of one another's homes and always finding family nearby. Another cherished memory was visiting her grandmother's house in West Virginia, sitting together on the back porch with her aunt, who was not too much older than her, getting up to shenanigans. Those moments of family connection became lasting treasures and reflected the values Les held dear throughout his life.

To his younger cousins, Les was the "big cousin" who always had a few dollars to slip into your hand, a corny joke to tell, a gospel quartet song to share, or a word of encouragement when you needed it most. He opened his home to foreign exchange students, offered rides to those in need, and never hesitated to help someone find shelter, support, or spiritual guidance.

When he became a grandfather, his joy overflowed. He delighted in showing off his grandchildren, bringing them to family gatherings, bragging on their accomplishments, and spending time with them just as he had done with the younger cousins he loved so dearly.

Les leaves to cherish his memory his brothers, Dr. C.W. (Peggy) Dunning of Lynchburg, Virginia, Rev. O.H. Dunning of Louisville, Kentucky, and Steven Dunning of Columbus, Ohio; daughter, Felicia (Derrick) Mayo; daughter, Elizabeth Freeman; grandchildren Stephanie Lyles, Tyree Dunnings, Bryce Chambliss, and two granddaughters; cousins Ginger Tonita Allen, Paula Jean Allen, Cassandra (Lawrence) Freeman, Theresa (Scott) Wallington-Tipton, Tersa (George) Leigh, Elizabeth Sanders Towns, and Tina Clark; along with a host of great-grandchildren, extended family members, and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

Les's family will greet friends from 10:00am to 11:00am on Wednesday, June 24, 2026 at the Cotner Funeral Home, 7369 E. Main St. Reynoldsburg, OH where his memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Inurnment to follow at Glen Rest Memorial Estates.

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