West Texas Mourns the Loss of Beloved Business Leader Mike “Mr. D” Dunnahoo

When I learned that my dear friend and community hero William Michael “Mike” Dunnahoo, the man everyone lovingly called Mr. D, had passed away, I was left speechless. My throat tightened, my eyes filled with tears, and memories of decades of friendship and community service came rushing back.

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A Man Who Helped Families, Including Mine

Mr. D wasn’t just a car dealer; he was the man who made sure my family drove safely. He’s the one who found my wife the car she really wanted. Years ago, when he was traveling the state growing his dealerships, he drove a fully camouflaged Dodge three-quarter-ton truck that I instantly loved. When his year with that truck was up, he called me, and that’s how I ended up with “Miss Cami,” a truck I still treasure today.

Building the Star Auto Group With Heart

Mike Dunnahoo started what became the Star Auto Group back in 1998 with one dealership and a dream rooted in faith, family, and integrity. Over the years, he built four thriving dealerships across Abilene, Big Spring, and West Texas, but his true success wasn’t in sales numbers. It was in the way he treated every customer like family and built a team that lived out his values of honesty and service.

A Smile That Could Brighten Any Room

Anyone who ever met Mr. D remembers his warm, comforting smile — the kind of smile that could put you at ease the moment you saw it. Whether you were a customer buying a car, a charity organizer asking for help, or just someone passing by, that smile made you feel welcome and valued. It wasn’t just friendly, it radiated kindness and made you feel like you mattered.

A Tireless Champion for Community and Charity

If there was a fundraiser in the Big Country, odds are Mr. D was helping make it happen. I had the honor of broadcasting live from Star Dodge many times, often during events that raised money for local nonprofits, scouting programs, and veteran causes. He was named United Way Volunteer of the Year in 2021, and his dealerships earned F&I’s Dealership of the Year in 2017, just two of many recognitions for his commitment to giving back.

A Legacy of Faith, Family, and Service

His family and the Star Auto Group team shared today that Mr. D wasn’t just an owner, he was the heart of their work. He built a culture of kindness, generosity, and servant leadership that will guide the Star family for years to come. His light will continue to shine in every car sold, every customer treated with care, and every local charity supported by the business he built.

Remembering a Friend and Community Hero

To his wife Pat, his children Blake and Che, and the entire Star family, my prayers and deepest sympathy are with you. Mr. D gave Abilene and the Big Country more than safe vehicles; he gave us hope, generosity, and an example of how to lead with heart.

There’s a huge void in West Texas today. God has welcomed one of the best right-hand men Heaven could ask for.

Rest in peace, Mike “Mr. D” Dunnahoo. You will be missed beyond measure.

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