Steven L. Cunningham

1949 - 2021

Steven L. Cunningham, 71, of Yuba City, went to be with the Lord on February 15, 2021. He was born May 30, 1949, to Georgean and LuVern Cunningham.

He is lovingly remembered by his brother, Richard Cunningham (wife Susan), of Fredericktown Ohio; his wife of 44 years, Renee Cunningham; daughters, Noelle Buttacavoli (husband Kenneth), and Erin Cunningham; mother-in-law, Aurora Walley; step-mother, Lila Cunningham; sister-in-law, Janine (husband Charlie); grandchildren, Morgan Myers Buttacavoli, and Payton Buttacavoli; as well as, multiple nieces and nephews.

Born in Fremont, Nebraska, Steven lived many places throughout the United States. He graduated from Homewood Flossmore High School in Chicago, before attending Kent State. He then enlisted in the US Air Force where he served four years as a medic at Beale Air Force Base. It was after his time in the military that Steven met his future wife, Renee, and made Yuba City, his permanent home.

Steven found his calling as a 7th and 8th grade history teacher, spending most of his career at Anna McKenney School. He was a dedicated teacher whose lessons expanded far beyond the classroom. His teachings live on in the lives of the hundreds of students he has impacted. He appreciated every one of his students and loved being a part in their journeys. However, Steven's true gift was the love he shared for his family.

Steven was inherently devoted to his family. If you were to ask him, he would say that his family was his greatest accomplishment. His admiration and love for his wife was recognized by all. Steven was incredibly proud of his daughters, Noelle and Erin, and his grandchildren Morgan and Payton. Always active and involved in their lives, he rarely, if ever, missed a game, activity, event or ceremony.

Always full of life and energy, Steven enjoyed many different activities. An avid golfer, Steven was an active member of Peach Tree Golf Club. He loved to watch baseball and old time westerns. He cherished his relationship with Jesus and was a member of Adventure Church. In his later years, his favorite pastime was finding new adventures and traveling around the country with Renee in their RV.

Steven will be most remembered for his wonderful sense of humor, his extraordinary kindness and genuine nature. He never failed to greet people with a smile and inquire about their lives.

Steven's life impacted so many, and although he is greatly missed, the blessing that was his life is understood by all. His wife had 44 years with her best friend and true life partner, they were each other's better halves. His children knew him as their first "superhero" and the man who they had wrapped around their finger. His grandchildren will always remember him as "Papa", who will forever be in their corner as one of their biggest fans. This is not goodbye, it is just see you later.

Due to COVID, a celebration of life will be held at a later date.