IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Virginia Joyce

Virginia Joyce Dunn Profile Photo

Dunn

May 22, 1945 – May 23, 2026

Obituary

Virginia Eileen Joyce Dunn (May 22, 1945 – May 23, 2026) passed away on May 23, 2026, in Laguna Woods, California.

Virginia “Jinny” Dunn, 81, was born on May 22, 1945, in Hermosa Beach, California, to James “Jim” and Eileen Joyce. She lived a life defined by curiosity and an unwavering love of learning, filled with service, adventure, and family.

Jinny graduated from San Gabriel High School and went on to attend Cal Western University in Point Loma before earning her degree in Education from San Diego State University. Jinny began her nearly 30-year teaching career in Virginia Beach, Virginia, which was the first duty station with her former husband, U.S. Navy Commander Michael Dunn, whom she met at San Diego State. A devoted history teacher at heart, she believed history could only truly be understood by walking the places where stories unfolded. She lived this philosophy wholeheartedly, traveling the world whenever she had a chance over weekends and most holiday breaks. She instilled this passion and curiosity in her daughters, Kathleen and Julianne.

After retiring from teaching in 2016, Jinny continued to enrich young lives by hosting exchange students, opening both her home and her heart to the world. She also loved cheering on her favorite teams—the San Diego Chargers and Padres, the Kansas City Chiefs, and the San Diego State Aztecs—especially when watching games with her grandson, Jason Holliday.

Armed with an endless supply of fascinating facts, Jinny was a formidable opponent in any trivia contest. She also enjoyed bingo nights and penny slots and always brought her signature warmth, wit, and humor to every situation. With an interior designer’s eye, she surrounded herself with beautiful antiques and custom artwork, especially photography by her younger grandchild, Parker.

Jinny was a dedicated member of P.E.O. for over 50 years, serving in numerous leadership roles at both the chapter and state levels. She strongly identified with P.E.O.’s commitment to community service and empowering women, and was proud of her service to the organization.

She is survived by her daughters, Kathleen Dunn and Julianne Dunn; her grandson, Jason Holliday; her grandchild Parker Holliday, and Parker’s husband, Elliott Andrews; her older brother, Jay Joyce, and his wife Arlene; her younger brother, Tom Joyce, and his wife Lisa Fox; her niece, Joanna Weiss, her husband Jason, and their children Leah, Will, and Audrey; her nephew, Jay Joyce III, his wife Paula, and children Jack and Ali; and her beloved dog, Jimbeau. She was preceded in death by her parents, Jim and Eileen; her aunt Audrie and uncle Fon; and two cherished dogs, Latte and Tami.

A commemoration of her life will be held on Friday, June 5, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at The Ivy at Wellington Living Facility in Laguna Hills.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Susan G. Komen Foundation or the Alzheimer’s Association.

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