Calvin Cunningham

Calvin Cunningham was born to the late Nash and Lucy Cunningham on August 1, 1930, in Eastaboga, Alabama. Calvin received his formal education in the Talladega County School System. He graduated from Ophelia S. Hill Memorial High School (Jenifer) in Munford, AL. After high school he enlisted in the United States Army. While in the army he fought in the Korean War and served his country well. He received the distinguished "Purple Heart Medal For Military Merit", a decoration awarded in the name of the President to those wounded or killed while serving with the United States military; the Ambassador For Peace Official Proclamation from the Minister, Patriots and Veterans Affairs from the Republic of Korea for their everlasting gratitude for the service he rendered to their countrymen in restoring and preserving their freedom and democracy; a medal for Efficiency, Honor and Fidelity; and a medal For Service in the Defense of the Principles of the Charter of the United Nations along with many other notable accolades. He was also a member of the American Legion Post 312. After coming home from serving his country, and being wounded in the Korean War, he married his high school sweetheart, Ruby Lee Birdsong on June 25, 1954. To this union was born four children. He was employed at Fort McClellan, United States Army Post for several years. Later he was employed at the Anniston Army Depot for twenty-one years where he retired in 1988. He joined the Pure Holiness Church of America in Sweet Rock under the leadership of Elder William F. Allen. He had a passion for singing, playing the drums and he even enjoyed writing songs. He enjoyed singing in local quartet groups and gave The Gospel Harmonizers their name. He was also known for his generous spirit and his willingness to help. He is affectionately remembered as "Wow, wow," a phrase he often used. Calvin was preceded in death by his wife Ruby L. Cunningham; daughters, Patricia Ann Cunningham, and Debra Gale Cunningham Denny; sisters, Jessie Hill, Maggie Gibson, Patricia Young, Louise Elston; brothers, Nash Cunningham Jr., Ashbury Cunningham, and William Cunningham. He leaves to cherish his memories his daughter Janice (Alfred) Allen, son Michael (Nora) Cunningham, son-in-law William Denny; nine grandchildren, Alandus Virden (A devoted and loving caregiver), Maurice Virden, LaMeka Calhoun, Treon Allen Ford, Shunda Graham, Antwone Allen, Antonio Allen, Kristen Cunningham, Nicholas Cunningham; nine great grandchildren, two great-great grandchildren; sisters-in-law Mary Birdsong, Ada McElderry, Deloris Birdsong, and Dorothy Cunningham. He also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

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Calvin Cunningham

August 1, 1930 - September 1, 2022