Joe Louis Cunningham, Sr.

Born on September 7, 1935, to the late Ernest Cunningham Sr. and Clara Bell Mitchell, Joe's life was one of love, dedication, and service to his community. A man of unwavering faith, Joe committed his life to Christ at an early age in Vincent, AL. Later in life he united with Greater Thankful Baptist Church faithfully serving as a dedicated Trustee. As the years went by, Mr. Cunningham continued working in the Lord's vineyard when he became a devoted member of New Hope Missionary Baptist Church in Hobson City, AL. His dedication to his church and his strong spiritual beliefs were evident to all who knew him. Joe's life was marked by hard work and a commitment to excellence. After graduating from Calhoun County Training School in Hobson City in 1954, he proudly served his country in the U.S. Army. Following his military service, Joe was employed by Anniston Foundry for many years until their closure. Joe found his calling in cabinet making and automotive skills. To better provide for his family, he attended Ayers Technical College, where he honed his craft, eventually becoming a skilled craftsman. Once he graduated and received his certification, Joe was gainfully employed with Anniston Army Depot where he retired after 20 years and began to enjoy the fruits of his labor. His talent and passion for woodworking were exemplified in the countless beautiful cabinets he lovingly built, gracing homes throughout Calhoun County making him well-known as "The Cabinet Man". Beyond his professional achievements, Joe was deeply involved in his community. He served as a respected councilman for the Town of Hobson City during the 1970' and 1980's and again from 2010 - 2021, tirelessly working to make a positive impact on the lives of its residents. His dedication to civic engagement extended to his active involvement in numerous organizations including T.A.W. Elks Lodge #1668, the American Legion, WAMS, Hobson City Senior Citizens, and the Biz Whist Club. Joe's commitment to service and betterment of his community was truly unparalleled. Outside of his commitments, Joe cherished time spent with family and friends. Whether he was exploring the Georgia line with his buddies Renfroe Caver and Stanley McGrue, cruising around Hobson City, or sitting on the corner, offering a warm wave to passersby, Joe's joy radiated through his presence. As Joe travelled his 88-year earthly journey, he was united in holy matrimony to the former Ms. Gladys Nunn. To their union came the blessing of seven loving children and one adoptive grandchild. Joe loved his children and enjoyed spending time with his family taking them on summer trips to Cleveland yearly, to visit his mother. Joe Lewis Cunningham peacefully departed from this earthly realm on October 14, 2023, at the age of 88, in the loving embrace of his daughter's home in Oxford, Alabama while surrounded by loved ones. Once receiving the Master's call, Joe was reunited with his father Ernest Cunningham Sr., his mother Clara Cunningham, his sons, Joe Louis "Moosie" Cunningham Jr. and Larry McCrimmon, his brothers, Ernest Cunningham Jr. and Clayton Cunningham Sr., and his sisters Bernest Hargrove and Sandra Cunningham. Joe will be forever remembered for his unwavering love as a husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His legacy lives on through the mother of his children, Gladys Cunningham; daughters, Dianne (Stanley) Jones, Gloria Jean (Alphonso) Newton, Teresa Webb, Anita Jackson, Bonita (Cedric) Mason, Tonika Cunningham; son, Tracy (Vanessa) Cunningham, grandchildren; Tara, Katrina, Shontell, Amanda, Travokeo, Delrekus, Tracy, Jermaine, Deidra, Jessica, Desmond, Cedric Jr., Quentin, Jessie, Roderick, Quinita, Antonio, Demetrius, and Dominique; forty-five great- grandchildren and nine great-great grandchildren, each one a testament to his love, wisdom, and guidance; his siblings, Opal Thomason, Denise DeRamus, Cora (Larry) Stamps, Anita Cunningham, Ricky (Wanda) Cunningham, Kenneth (Deneise) Cunningham, Jerome (Daphne) Cunningham; sisters- in-law Louise Cunningham and Sara Cunningham; and a host of nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends. His memory will forever be held in our hearts, and his legacy will endure through the lives he touched. Rest in eternal peace our dear Joe Louis Cunningham, Sr. You will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

Tributes

Joe Louis Cunningham, Sr.

September 7, 1935 - October 14, 2023