Beth Marie Lavia Dunn

Beth Marie Lavia Dunn, 53, of Wake Forest, passed away peacefully on Thursday evening, May 29, 2025, at her home, surrounded by the family she so deeply loved.

Born on July 17, 1971, in Des Moines, Iowa, her family eventually settled in Raleigh, where she graduated from Millbrook High School before earning her bachelor’s degree at East Carolina University, starting a lifelong bond with her beloved ECU Pirates. After graduating, Beth and her family settled back in the Raleigh area, eventually making their home in Wake Forest.

Beth found joy in the simple pleasures of life, spending time with her family and many friends, going on beach trips, cheering for her Pirates and taking many long walks with her dog Ranger. Beth and her family travelled around the country with a goal to visit all 30 MLB stadiums, during which they enjoyed great local food and got to experience a wide variety of cities throughout the U.S. and beyond.

She was a member of North Raleigh United Methodist Church, where she shared her faith and compassion as a former Sunday School teacher. She always loved working with children and also taught preschool, volunteered at libraries and organized and chaperoned many school trips.

Though Beth’s passions were many — from ECU sports, to animals, to kids, nothing compared to the deep and abiding love she held for her family. Her strength, kind smile, and unwavering support will be forever remembered by those who knew her best.

Beth is survived by her husband of 27 years, Lane Dunn; son, Matthew Lane Dunn of Wake Forest,  father, James Paul "Jim" Lavia, Jr.; siblings, Julie Hunter & husband Kimbel of Salem, VA, and Joseph Lavia & wife Victoria of Severna Park, Maryland; nieces & nephews, Kristine Binner & husband Matthew of Salem, Virginia, Caroline Tomblin & husband Justin of Pittsboro, North Carolina, Ryan Hunter & wife Kalie of Westfield, Indiana, James Lavia of Severna Park, Maryland and Alison Lavia of Severna Park, Maryland; great nephew, Thomas Binner. Beth was preceded in death by her mother, Barbara Ann Lavia.

A celebration of Beth's life will be held at 2 o'clock,  Tuesday, June 10, at North Raleigh United Methodist Church, 8501 Honeycutt Rd, Raleigh, NC. Friends may visit with the family following the service at the church.

Memorial contributions can be made to the SPCA of Wake County(www.spcawake.org)

Arrangements are by Clancy Strickland Wheeler Funeral, 1051 Durham Road, Wake Forest, NC 27587. 919-556-7400

www.cswfuneralhome.com