Henry Vance Dunlow, aged 80, of Colerain, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on Christmas Eve in the home of his daughter, where he had lived for the past two years during a long illness.

Vance, lovingly known as "Papa Vance" to his children and grandchildren, lived a life full of love, dedication, and service. He proudly served as a Staff Sergeant and Helicopter Crew Chief in the Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Service in support of the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War. Later, he dedicated many years as a skilled mechanic with Alamac and Penco.

Vance found joy in the simple things in life. Whether out on his boat, cheering for his Washington Nationals, or enjoying a cup (or three) of coffee, he brought warmth and happiness to everyone around him. A devoted grandfather, he was known for his loving and gentle wisdom, as well as a sense of humor that brightened every room he entered.

He is survived by his children, Cindy Wooten of Winterville, North Carolina and Dennis Dunlow (Crystal) of Clayton, North Carolina, and his six grandchildren: Abby, Hunter, Lily, Jenna, Camden, and Tyler. He is also survived by his brother, Garry Dunlow (Beverly) of Wilmington, North Carolina; his sister, Idonia Williams (Marshall) of Winton, North Carolina; and several nieces and nephews.

A graveside funeral service will be held at Highland Memorial Gardens on Saturday, December 28, 2024, at 10 a.m. with military honors. The family will receive visitors at the cemetery following the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Wounded Warrior Project in Vance's memory.

He will be remembered as a loving father and grandfather, a loyal friend, and a source of strength and inspiration to all who knew him.

Rest in peace, Papa Vance. Your legacy of love, gentleness, and kindness lives on in all of us.

Online condolences can be directed to www.walkerfh.net .

Walker Funeral Home of Windsor is proud to serve the  Dunlow Family.