Waunita Gail Dewey was born March 24, 1964, in Fairbanks, Alaska, to Kenneth and Oneida Dewey. Her arrival came during the historic 1964 Alaska earthquake, providing a memorable beginning to what would become a remarkable life. The youngest of the five Dewey children, Waunita was named in memory of a deceased sister of her father.

Waunita grew up alongside her family as they made their way from Alaska to Tennessee, Louisiana and Texas before eventually returning to Tennessee, where she graduated from Pearl Cohn High School in West Nashville in 1982.

She went on to build a successful career in sales, beginning in property management and later working with major hotel companies. Extensive cancer treatments kept her from working during the last few years of her life. Waunita made her home primarily in Nashville, Tennessee, for much of her adult life before moving to Oklahoma City in May 2023.

But the places she lived and the work she did tell only part of Waunita's story.

Those who knew her will remember a woman of faith, gratitude and genuine care for others. She also had a distinctive sense of style that was completely her own. Her favorite color, as her family likes to say, was "sparkly." And then there were the stilettos. Waunita had many pairs, and she wore them everywhere. They became something of a trademark—a fitting reflection of a woman who wasn't afraid to stand tall and bring a little sparkle wherever she went.

Waunita also loved her "fur babies" dearly and was rarely without a beloved pet by her side. Her most recent pups, Versace and Fendi, were appropriately stylish companions for someone with Waunita's flair.

To her family, she was also lovingly known as "Nini." She held a special place in the lives of her nieces and nephews, as well as her great-nieces and great-nephews, who adored their beautiful aunt. Her love for family and people was evident not simply in what she said, but in how she lived.

In 2018, Waunita was diagnosed with cancer. What followed was a difficult journey that included two rounds of chemotherapy, two rounds of radiation and major surgery. Yet cancer never became the definition of Waunita's life. She faced each challenge with remarkable courage and remained positive throughout the journey, touching many lives with her faith, strength and indomitable spirit.

Waunita was preceded in death by her parents, Kenneth and Oneida Dewey, and her sister, Wynette Lynn Taylor. She is survived by her siblings, Wanda Lucille Leach of Yukon, Oklahoma; David Wayne Dewey of Franklin, Tennessee; and Wendy Diane Sullivan of Spring Hill, Tennessee; along with her beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, and the many family members and friends whose lives were made richer by knowing her.

Those who loved Waunita will treasure the memories she leaves behind and honor her by carrying forward the qualities she demonstrated so beautifully—her faith, gratitude, courage and genuine care for others.

For those wishing to honor Waunita's memory, the family kindly asks that, in lieu of flowers, you consider a contribution to help with her final expenses.  Your love, prayers and support are deeply appreciated. Contribute here.

Until the day we are reunited, we will miss you, Nini. And whenever life could use a little more sparkle, we'll think of you.