MRS. DORNZILLER "DONNIE" RAINEY DUNLOP

Dornziller “Donnie” Rainey Dunlop, was born on July 25, 1951, in Indianapolis, Indiana, to the late Lucy Rainey Johnson and Charles Burton. She departed this life surrounded by the love of her family, leaving behind a legacy of faith, devotion, and unwavering love.

Donnie was educated in the Indianapolis Public School system, attending School #52 before graduating from George Washington High School in 1969. During her school years, she distinguished herself as the only Black woman to be a part of the Continentalaires Choral Ensemble, showcasing her lifelong passion for music.

At the age of 16, Donnie began a beautiful love story with her high school sweetheart, Michael D. Dunlop Sr., in 1967. They were united in marriage on January 31, 1970, officiated by the late Rev. Arthur Johnson of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church—a day she would later describe as “her best day ever.” Their union spanned 58 wonderful years, filled with love, partnership, and cherished memories. From this union came three children: Shonda (born 1970), Michael “Mikey” Jr. (born 1975), and Jocelyn (born 1981), along with a beloved bonus son, Antoin Watkins Sr.

In 1973, Donnie and her family relocated to Compton, California, where they lived and raised their children for 11 years before returning to their hometown of Indianapolis in 1985. Wherever she lived, Donnie built lasting relationships and became deeply connected with family, friends, and community.

Donnie accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized in 1968 at Mt. Vernon Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Rev. Mozel Sanders. Throughout her life, she remained rooted in her faith and was a member of Healing Streams Church until her passing. Even during her illness, she continued to praise God with strength and grace.

Her work ethic was evident throughout her career. She began working at Indiana Bell as a telephone operator from 1968 to 1973 before transferring to Pacific Bell in Compton, California, where she worked until 1978. After returning to Indianapolis, she worked at Shepard Poorman Graphics for over a decade beginning in 1985.

Donnie had a vibrant spirit and found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved singing and listening to music—especially Motown classics, 70s funk and disco, gospel hymns, and her all-time favorite artist, Aretha Franklin. She enjoyed spending time with family and friends, watching her favorite game shows, news programs, soap operas (“her stories”), and crime shows. She also loved crossword puzzles, cooking delicious meals—especially her famous cornbread dressing with gizzards, potato salad, and chicken divan—and hosting beautifully decorated holiday gatherings in her home. One of her favorite desserts was lemon meringue pie.

Dornziller “Donnie” Rainey Dunlop, departed this earthly life on April 5, 2026, at the age of 74 years, 8 months, and 11 days. She was preceded in death by her parents, Lucy Rainey Johnson and Charles Burton; her sister, Betty Johnson; and her brothers, Victor Rainey and Keith Johnson.

Donnie leaves to cherish her memory her devoted husband, Michael D. Dunlop Sr.; her children, Shonda Ware, Antoin “Tony” Watkins Sr. (Lisa), Michael D. Dunlop Jr., and Jocelyn Dunlop; her grandchildren, De’Darviyon Dunlop, Kamille Randolph (Octavious), Mia Salva (Isai), William Ware III, Antoin Watkins Jr., LaShonda Ware, Jeremiah Pettrie, Alyzah Ware, and Jeriyah Jordan; and her great-grandchildren, Da’Maryus Dunlop, Da’Monie Clark, and Zara Randolph. She is also survived by her siblings, Janice Crawford, Otis Bryant Jr., Richard Johnson (Kimberly), Sandra Johnson, Corey Johnson (Ava), and Kevin Johnson; along with 10 nieces, 4 nephews, and a host of extended family and dear friends.

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