DeAnna Lynn Durnal

DeAnna "Dee" Durnal, 63, passed away peacefully on July 28, 2026, in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida after a brief battle with cancer. She was born in Aurora, Illinois, and lived a life devoted to her family, home, and the people she loved.

Dee was the beloved wife of James Durnal, with whom she shared 44 years of marriage. She was a proud military wife for 20 years, faithfully standing beside her husband throughout his United States Navy career. During those years, she traveled with him to numerous duty stations and communities, embracing each new place with strength, grace, and resilience, before finally settling in Ponte Vedra, Florida, where they built their lasting home together. Together, they created a life and family filled with love, laughter, and countless memories.

She was a devoted mother to her son, Jimmy Durnal (Jenna), and her daughter, Rachel Poteat (Justin). Her greatest joy was being a grandmother to Dustin, Lincoln, Adeline, and Ansley. She cherished every moment with her grandchildren and took great pride in watching them grow.

Dee was preceded in death by her mother, Lorene Johnson, and stepfather, Ray Johnson. She is survived by her three older brothers, Mike Schmidt (Connie), Steve Schmidt (Von), and Kenny Schmidt (Candy), as well as numerous nieces and nephews who will remember her with love.

Dee was a dedicated homemaker and also served as Vice President and voice of Quality Maintenance of Ponte Vedra, owned and operated by her husband.

She was an active member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary and the American Legion, where she supported veterans and her community.

Dee will be remembered most for her love of family and the important place she held in the lives of those around her. Her presence, love, and memories will remain with her family and friends forever.

A viewing will be held on Saturday, August 8, 2026, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Quinn-Shalz Funeral Home in Jacksonville Beach, Florida.

Burial services will be held on Monday, August 10, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. at Jacksonville National Cemetery.