Lois Dunn, nee Gibson, originally from Tasmania, began as a short termer in Ethiopia in the early 1970’s. Later, she served with SIM Australia at Galmi from 1977 to 2000 as a nurse anaesthetist and then was seconded to a hospital in Cameroon where she worked as a missionary nurse as well as teaching anaesthetics. Lois met her husband Murray Dunn, NZ SIM, initially in 2000 through corresponding with him from Cameroon regarding an issue that she was dealing with. The letters back and forth continued until, after 6 years and meeting up together in Australia, they decided to get married. They settled in Hamilton, New Zealand and spent many happy years together. Lois lovingly nursed Murray through an illness prior to his passing in 2023. After he passed away, Lois moved into Somerset retirement village.

Lois always had a missional heart. She attended the Hamilton SIM prayer group and prayed faithfully and with interest for Cameroon, missionaries across the globe and for the world in general.

Lois was always passionate in telling others about Jesus and wanting people to grow in their faith. She was committed to inviting friends to the Women’s Bible Study Fellowship and supporting them in their growth. In the retirement village she was often talking to people about God and encouraging them to read the Bible and to attend church. When God prompted her to speak to people, she would do so. She made a special trip to the hospital, one day, to talk to a man about his faith. His heart was soft to God before he passed away the following day. Lois loved playing table tennis right up to the last three months. She relished the opportunity to meet new people and have conversations, while also enjoying good exercise.  (PS She was a good table tennis player!)

Lois’ heart was for her adopted son Ernest, his wife Etty and their daughter Verna, living in Cameroon. Verna was named after Lois. Ernest, an anesthetist, and Etty, an accountant, were always deeply grateful for Lois and Murray’s faithful interest and encouragement in their lives. Lois talked with the family every week on the phone.

Murray’s family cared for Lois so wonderfully after Murray’s passing and during her sickness. Lois was so thankful for the love and care.

Lois’s missional heart was with her to the end and thus was always available to be used by God.  Her life of service was a real example to us.