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D’Aun Terry Edmunds
- Published: December 14, 2023
With heavy hearts and profound sadness, we announce the passing of a beloved mother, sister, grandmother, aunt and friend, D’Aun Terry Edmunds. Surrounded by the love and warmth of her family at home, she peacefully departed from this world on Dec. 6, 2023. D’Aun journeyed to heaven after bravely facing glioblastoma, reuniting with her beloved son Devin, who left us Sept. 30, 2023, both touched by the challenges of cancer.
D’Aun was born July 20, 1949, in Lynwood, Los Angeles County, California, to proud parents Grant Wycliffe Waggoner Jr., and Marjorie Marie (McAninch) Waggoner. She shared an inseparable bond with her cherished younger sister, Darryl. Growing up in the San Gabriel Valley, they were enveloped in a world of cinematic wonder, with their parents instilling a love for movies and music. The Waggoner family’s adventurous spirit saw them embark on a journey to explore all 50 states — a dream realized by their dedicated mother. D’Aun and Darryl traveled the world together, enjoying countless celebrations and holidays. They loved entertaining, always up for a party!
D’Aun’s educational journey was marked by distinction. She graduated from Montebello High School in 1967 before earning a Bachelor of Science in Home Economics/Fashion Design from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo in 1971. Continuing her academic pursuits, she achieved a master’s degree in Home Economics/Fashion Design from The Ohio State University in 1972.
D’Aun and David celebrated 52 years of marriage, a union that began in June 1971. In July 1971, D’Aun and her devoted husband, David, made Ohio their home. Their love brought forth two beloved children, Devin (1977) and Darrin (1980). Her two boys, Devin and Darrin, were the center of her universe, and she poured her heart into actively participating in their lives. No ballgame or event was ever missed during their formative years, as she passionately supported them in every endeavor. As a family, they made many memories on cross-country trips to California in their camper van.
D’Aun had a distinguished 30-year teaching career at Greenon High School. From the very start, D’Aun’s classroom was more than just a place of learning; it was a warm haven where every student became a part of her extended family. Like a caring “Mother” to each of her students, she fostered an environment where every individual felt loved and important. Her passion for home economics and the vocational program left an indelible mark on countless lives. D’Aun’s commitment to education went beyond the conventional, and her dedication was acknowledged with the prestigious National Board Certified Teacher Award in 2001. Her impact extended far beyond the classroom, and even after retirement, it was a common occurrence for past students to approach her in public, fondly sharing memories of their time with Mrs. Edmunds. These encounters were a testament to the lasting influence she had on shaping young minds and the enduring connections she formed with her students.
After concluding her fulfilling teaching career in June 2003, D’Aun and David embarked on a new chapter, retirement. They bid farewell to their cherished home on Old Mill Road, exchanging it for a new home they designed in Maineville, Ohio, nestled near Kings Island. D’Aun became an active presence in the community’s homeowners association, serving as its president for five years. Together, they set sail on many cruises and tour adventures across Europe and South America. In a heartwarming twist, 2015 saw their return to Yellow Springs, where they lovingly designed and built another home, this time in close proximity to Darrin and Leslie for added family support and the joy of watching their grandchildren grow up.
Her greatest source of joy was being a devoted “DD,” a nickname lovingly bestowed upon her by her grandchildren. Her affection for her grandchildren —Harper, Albany, Arlie and Grant — knew no bounds. She attended every milestone, energetically cheering them on at school activities and sporting events. With unwavering enthusiasm, she meticulously planned birthdays and holidays to ensure they felt truly special. She reveled in the art of creating magical moments, whether it was dressing her granddaughters in exquisite outfits and heels, twirling and dancing with them, or engaging in the delightful world of crafting and painting.
As we remember D’Aun Terry Edmunds, let us cherish the legacy of a woman whose pride and love for her family and commitment to education knew no bounds. May the stories of her warmth, generosity and boundless love continue to resonate, bringing comfort to all those who were touched by her remarkable presence.
D’Aun is survived by her loving husband of 52 years, David Edmunds; her son and daughter-in-law Darrin and Leslie Edmunds, of Springfield, Ohio; and her daughter-in-law Erica Edmunds, of Bellbrook, Ohio. She leaves behind a legacy in her grandchildren, Harper, Albany, Arlie and Grant. D’Aun is also survived by her cherished younger sister, Darryl, and brother-in-law, Michael, of San Jose, California, and their children, Chris, Ty and Nikki.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Clem & Thyme Nutrition on Saturday, Dec. 16, 2023, from 5–7 pm. The address is 4359 E. Enon Road, Yellow Springs, Ohio, 45387.
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