M. Lynette Cook-Dunham, 81, of Granite City, Illinois, passed away peacefully at 11:09 p.m. on Monday, May 25, 2026, at her home surrounded by the love of her family. She was born June 8, 1944, in East St. Louis, Illinois, a daughter of the late Jack Thomas and Elsie Marie (Williams) Cook.
Lynette married the love of her life, Lee Roy Dunham, on October 11, 1996, in Alton, Illinois, and he preceded her in death on February 18, 2014. She retired from AT&T after many years of dedicated service as a sales representative. A faithful member of TriCity Assembly of God Church in Granite City, Lynette lived her life with kindness, compassion, and devotion to those she loved.
Family meant everything to Lynette. She cherished gatherings with loved ones and especially looked forward to Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year celebrations. She had a special love for little children and babies, enjoyed cheering on Ohio State football, and dedicated much of her time to helping others through the Special Lady Team of Relay for Life. Lynette also found joy in making blankets for babies, family members, and friends, gifts that will continue to be treasured for years to come.
She is survived by her beloved grandchildren, Jackson (Courteney) Jackson of Pontoon Beach and Mayah Lynette Derr of Branson, Missouri; special great grandson, Jacopo Salato; her brother, Douglas Cook of Granite City; brother-in-law, Michael Mercer; a special friend, Rosemary; many nieces and nephews; great-nieces and great-nephews; great-great-nieces and great-great-nephews; other extended family members; and many dear friends.
In addition to her beloved husband and parents, she was preceded in death by her daughter, Rhana Gayle Derr; son-in-law, Michael Derr; and sister, Vanessa Gail Mercer.
In celebration of her life, visitation will be held at Irwin Chapel, 3960 Maryville Road in Granite City, on Monday, June 1, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. until the time of funeral services at 1:00 p.m. with Reverend Barry Shepherd officiating. Burial will follow at Sunset Hill Memorial Estates in Glen Carbon. Memorials may be made to Relay for Life. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.irwinchapel.com.
