Willa Cunningham

Willa Cunningham NORFOLK - Willa "Ruth" Cunningham, 89, passed away Dec. 21, 2010 in a Norfolk hospital. Ruth was a native of Harrisville, W.Va., and the daughter of the late Marcus and Virgil Broadwater. She was the widow of Robert "Bob" Cunningham, her husband of 64 years. Bob was her schoolmate from childhood, her best friend and the love of her life. During her lifetime, Ruth was a music teacher, kindergarten teacher, church organist and choir director, but her primary role was as a marvelous wife and mother. She was the beloved heart of her family, adored by her husband, children and grandchildren. A member of Christ United Methodist Church for more than 50 years, Ruth's life was greatly enriched by the friendships she found there. Surviving are two daughters, Charlotte King and husband Richard, and Connie Carlson and husband Ron, both of Virginia Beach. She is also survived by son George Cunningham and wife Gulsun of Norfolk; one sister, Julia Mathers of West Virginia; five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. A funeral will be conducted Monday, Dec. 27, at 11 a.m. at Christ United Methodist Church. The burial will follow in Forest Lawn Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the Hollomon- Brown Funeral Home, Tidewater Drive Chapel, today from 4 to 6 p.m. Condolences may be offered to the family at www.hollomon-brown.com. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Society, (800) 344-4867.