Judith Elaine (Stratton) Dunbar

Judith Elaine (Stratton) Dunbar, a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on February 26, 2026, at McLaren Greater Lansing, embraced by the love and presence of her devoted daughter, Robin. Born on December 27, 1939, in Celian, Mercer County, Ohio, Judith lived a life marked by kindness, resilience, and an unwavering dedication to those she loved. The daughter of Jay Ernest and Doris Irene (Minnich) Stratton, Judith was raised in a family that cherished togetherness and perseverance. Her childhood was spent following her father’s work, attending various schools from Coldwater, Ohio, to Greensboro, Maryland, and finally to Coshocton, Ohio. In 1958, she completed her education at Delta High School in Delta, Ohio. Throughout her life, she fondly recalled the lessons of community and faith she learned during her early years, especially her time in Sunday school beginning in 1942. In March of 1958, Judith married Robert Bruce Dunbar at the First Presbyterian Church in Junction City, Kansas, where Robert was stationed at Fort Riley. Although their paths eventually diverged in the late 1970s, their union brought forth a family that became the center of Judith’s world. She is survived by her cherished children: Robin Marie Dunbar of Lansing, Michigan; Robert Jay Dunbar and his wife Michelle Sue (Cassada) of Leesville, South Carolina, along with their children Megan Elizabeth, Madison Elaine, and Tommy Bradley Nicholas; and Victor Lee Dunbar with his children Aiyana Lee and Ezra John. Her legacy continues through her nephew, David Scott Hoste, his family, and numerous other relatives who will carry her memory forward. Judith spent much of her career as a waitress, a role she embraced with her signature warmth and genuine care for others. For 18 years, she was a familiar and beloved presence at Don’s Truck Stop in Dimondale, Michigan, where she touched the lives of countless customers. When the truck stop closed, she brought her dedication and enthusiasm to the Cracker Barrel Old Country Store in Lansing, where her spirit of service continued to shine. During the 1970s and 1980s, Judith also enjoyed selling Avon, relishing the opportunity to forge lasting friendships with neighbors and community members. Outside of work, Judith found joy in simple pleasures: tending to her vibrant flower garden, delighting in the birds and bees it attracted, and cheering passionately for her favorite sports teams, including the Detroit Lions, Tigers, and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. Her support for these teams was a testament to her loyalty and spirited nature, even when faced with friendly teasing from loved ones. Judith was preceded in death by her parents, Jay Ernest and Doris Irene, her beloved sisters Darla Ann Beildman and Coralee Mae Hoste, her cousin Candace Lynn "Candee" Fruth, and her former husband Robert Bruce Dunbar. Their memories remained close to her heart throughout her life. Judith’s family kindly requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Boys Town, an organization that reflects her compassionate spirit and dedication to nurturing future generations. Donations can be made at https://liftwithboystown.org/. As we celebrate Judith’s life, we remember her as a woman of grace, strength, and unwavering love. Her legacy is one of kindness, resilience, and a deep commitment to family and community. She will be dearly missed but forever cherished in the hearts of all who knew her.