John “Mack” Dunlap, 80, passed away peacefully at home following a valiant battle with illness and was welcomed into his heavenly home on January 23, 2021. His devotion to family and firm belief in God supported him throughout his journey.

John was born to the late Leroy and Emma Sims Dunlap on March 2, 1940 in York, SC. He was a devoted member of Tabernacle Baptist Church for many years where he served as a Deacon, member of the Brotherhood, Men of Distinction and Combined Choirs, Sunday School Teacher, Adult Sunday School Superintendent, bus driver and custodian. He dedicated countless hours in support of his local community and was President of the Victory Neighborhood Watch. John was a retired Supervisor at Ithaca Industries where he worked for over 20 years and was co- owner of Esther’s Flowers for 30 years.

John was blessed with a loving family. He married Esther Rhyne Dunlap on December 25, 1961 in Gastonia, NC. He helped raise his children with discipline, humility, and a strong work ethic.

John was dedicated and committed to God, his family, his church, and his community, He was loved and respected by many and will be dearly missed by his loved ones who celebrate his life. John is survived by his wife, Esther Dunlap; his sons, Eric Dunlap and Antoine Dunlap (Tonya); his daughters , Shasta Roseboro (Elbert) and Deidra Dunlap-Reid (Al); his goddaughters , Terronna Ross (affectionately known as “Toe”) and Fran Collins (affectionately known as “Tee”); his grandchildren, Ryan(Jessica) Dunlap, Zion Dunlap, Joshua Reid, Christina Reid, Isaiah Reid, Markeya McCray and Aaron Roseboro; his great -grandchildren, Zoe Dunlap, Elijah Hart and Marley Dawkins; his sister, Dorothy Williams(Claude) and brother, William Sims. He is preceded in death by his parents, Leroy and Emma Sims Dunlap; his brothers, Willie Dunlap and Billie Davis; his sisters, Mary Tate and Jean Iola Brown.

In addition, John leaves to cherish his memories and legacy, special nieces, Michelle Williams, and Mary Toms; family friends and caregivers, Luther Longmire and Johnnie Derr; special friends, Ronnie Fox and Joyce Hoyle and lifelong friend, Terry Chisholm.

Arrangements Are As Follow:

Place Graveside Service Gaston Memorial Park South New Hope Road Gastonia, North Carolina

Date Wednesday, January 27, 2021 @ 2:00 P.M.

Public Viewing at Tabernacle Baptist Church Chapel 519 West 19th Avenue, Gastonia, North Carolina from 2:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.