Roy Cunningham, Jr.

Roy Cunningham

With love and gratitude for a life well-lived, we celebrate the legacy of Roy Cunningham, who received the gift of life on April 3, 1952, in St. Louis, Missouri, as the beloved firstborn son of Evelyn Cunningham and the late Roy Cunningham (deceased 2016).

Roy was a proud graduate of Beaumont High School, Class of 1970, and continued his education at St. John’s University in Minnesota, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in History Education. His passion for faith and service led him to receive his Certificate of License for the Gospel Ministry in 2001.

Roy cherished his two children, Jabari Parker Cunningham and Tara Cunningham, who brought him immense joy and pride.

Roy had a generous spirit and a deep love for people. Whether through sharing God’s Word, offering a helping hand, or simply enjoying music and laughter with family and friends, he made an impact on everyone he met. His faith was the foundation of his life—he was baptized as a child at Pleasant Green MB Church and later reaffirmed his faith as an adult at Corinthian Baptist Church.

In Houston, Texas, Roy found love and companionship with his wife, Deborah Ann Cunningham, whom he adored until her passing in 2021.

In his later years, Roy faced health challenges with strength and resilience. After suffering a stroke and brain hemorrhage, he was cared for at The Medical Resort Nursing Facility, where he peacefully passed away on February 9, 2025.

He leaves behind a legacy of love and faith, cherished by his mother, Evelyn Cunningham, and his seven siblings: Raymond (Raymond & Damon), Kim (Brandon, Adam, Steven), Darlynn (Sydney), Laurie (Qiana & Demetrius), Ollie (Evelyn & Erika), Sadie (Jessica), and Karen (Hillmon, Malcolm, Isaiah, Rayne, and Caleb). He will also be dearly remembered by his many nieces, nephews, extended family, and lifelong friends, especially his dear friend Donnell “Duck” Warren.

Roy’s kindness, wisdom, and unwavering faith will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. Though he is no longer with us in body, his spirit remains a guiding light, reminding us to love deeply, give generously, and trust in God’s plan.

Rest in peace, Roy. Your journey here is complete, but your love and legacy will never fade.