Amanda Louise Dunlap

It is with the heaviest of hearts that I announce the passing of my beloved sister, Amanda Louise Dunlap, at the age of 51, on Sunday, January 12th, 2025.

A Life Shaped by Strength and Resilience:

Amanda was diagnosed with Type 1 Juvenile Diabetes at the tender age of nine, a diagnosis that profoundly altered the course of her youth and adulthood. Despite the challenges she faced, she carried herself with a spirit that inspired those around her.

Born on June 25, 1973, Amanda grew up in the Canyon Creek neighborhood of Richardson, Texas, and graduated from Plano Senior High School in the Class of 1992.

Amanda’s Journey with Diabetes:

Before her diagnosis, Amanda was a vibrant, active little girl, full of confidence and joy. However, life took a challenging turn in 1982. Living with diabetes was not easy, especially in a world that was often unkind to those who were different. Amanda faced a school environment that was unforgiving, with friendships that faded and adults who lacked understanding and empathy.

Despite these struggles, Amanda found solace and joy in a summer camp for children with diabetes in Iowa, thanks to the foresight of our grandmother, Mary Jo Dunlap. These two weeks each summer allowed Amanda to experience the camaraderie of other children facing similar challenges, creating lifelong friendships and cherished memories.

As she grew older, systemic challenges compounded her struggles. Amanda was never able to have a professional career, a harsh reality brought on by the limitations of disability and Medicare policies. Yet, she channeled her time and energy into the things she loved most—helping others and caring for animals.

In her mid-20s, Amanda faced kidney failure, but in her early 30s, she received the precious gift of a pancreas and kidney transplant, (rumored to be the first double organ transplant at Parkland Kidney Transplant Program) extending her life for another two decades. We are forever grateful to the young donor from East Texas whose decision to check the organ donor box gave Amanda this second chance.

Amanda’s best years came during her fight for survival. She became her own fiercest advocate, navigating the complex donor system with remarkable tenacity. Those years of strength and determination defined her spirit.

A Passion for Life and Care for Others:

Amanda’s love of animals became her purpose after her transplant. She dedicated her time as a full-time volunteer at Take Me Home Pet Rescue, where she found a community of like-minded friends.

She was also the devoted caretaker of our father, David Dunlap, during his 20-year battle with heart disease. Amanda’s vigilance and love prolonged his life and ensured he received the best possible care.

In her mid-40s, Amanda faced new health challenges, including the loss of kidney function once again, heart surgeries, and many many complications. Yet, through it all, she remained resilient and kind-hearted.

A Life Full of Love and Simple Joys:

Amanda shared a deep and enduring love with her husband, Dustin Watson. Together, they lived in our childhood home in Richardson, Texas, building a life filled with love and mutual care for over 17 years.

Despite her health struggles, Amanda found joy in life’s simple pleasures—season passes to Six Flags, movie nights, holiday dinners, and a long-dreamed-of cruise to the Gulf of Mexico just two years ago.

Amanda’s Legacy:

Amanda was preceded in death by our father, David Dunlap; grandparents, Mary Jo and Paul Dunlap (Des Moines IA); Wilbur and Minnie Rankin (Winterset IA); and Bernard Gass (Newton MA); as well as her aunt and uncle Betty and Jack Ewoldt and Fred and Joyce Owens and Wilma and Murray Banks.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Dustin Watson; her loving mother, Peggy Dunlap; her brother and sister-in-law, Mike and Lindy Dunlap; and many cherished friends and family members near and far.

Amanda’s life was defined by kindness. She never missed an opportunity to tell me when someone treated her with compassion, and those moments left an indelible mark on her.

A Call to Action in Amanda’s Memory:

In honor of Amanda’s legacy, I invite you to make a small donation of $25 to either Take Me Home Pet Rescue or the Iowa summer camp program for children with diabetes. These organizations gave Amanda purpose and self-esteem, and your contribution would be a beautiful way to celebrate her life.

Iowa Diabetes Camp

https://www.camphertkohollow.com/donate/

Take Me Home Pet Rescue – Richardson TX

https://tmhpr.com/donate/

Our Gratitude:

Our family would like to express our heartfelt thanks to Dustin Watson for his unwavering love and care, our mother Peggy Dunlap for her decades of devotion, and the many doctors and nurses, especially Dr. Allan Shulkin and his team, for their compassionate care of both our father and Amanda.

Amanda Louise Dunlap’s life was one of courage, resilience, and love. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered by all who knew her.

A Celebration of Life:

The family is planning a Celebration of Life gathering at Amanda’s favorite Mexican restaurant in Richardson. Please leave a comment or send an email to [email protected] if you would like to be included.

Last Words:

To my sister, Mandy,

You were not dealt a fair hand, and yet you never complained.

You are stronger than I could ever be and stronger than anyone I have ever met.

I love you so very much.

Your loving brother,

Mike Dunlap