Dunn Vertical File at Heritage Place, Lenoir County Community College
From a typed copy

Sketch of Mrs. Cynthia Dunn

The subject of this sketch was born April 16, 1804 and died Jan'y 27, 1887 being in her 83rd year. Her maiden name was Loftin. At an early age she was married to Walter Dunn. Not long after, she with her husband, confessed Christ at Rountree's Church in Pitt County, NC and became members of that congregation. This was about the time that the Church under the care and leadership of Elder John P. Dunn decided to be known as the Church of Christ, and the members thereof, simply as Disciples of Christ.

Having personal knowledge of all these early movements in that direction, it was only natural that one of her energy and active turn of mind should become zealous in such a cause. She next held membership in congregation formed near Kinston, known as Little Sister, being more convenient to her home. From this nucleus resulted the congregation in Kinston, of which she was one of the first members on the list. Her history is interwoven with the history of the Church.

In 1850 she was left a widow with a considerable family to care for. She braved the situation, never marring again but looking carefully to all of her interests. Amid no small share of affliction and care she never failed to find time to care for the church and assist in looking after its welfare. Especially was she interested in the religious interests of her children, relatives and friends. Anxious to see them Christians and enjoy the full light of the gospel she spared no effort toward getting them to attend preaching, read the Bible or do anything which could bring about the happy result.

After she became unable to attend church, she would not fail to inquire if a son, a daughter, grandson or friend were there.

Our most intimate acquaintance has been during her last years of affliction, during which it was always pleasant and cheering to meet her, and she never failed to request us to read, sing and pray with her. Her funeral service was largely attended and the Kinston Church and many friends mourn the loss of one, faithful and true.

Signed H. C. Bowen [Henry Bowen Minister]

Note: Cynthia was the daughter of Shadrack and Sarah Loftin