Sammy Cunningham

Sammy (Willie Juanita) Cunningham passed away Wednesday, July 16, 2008 in Corpus Christi, Texas. Sammy was born on September 29, 1920 in California and soon after, she and her parents moved to Louisiana where she spent most of her young life. She attended high school in Beaumont, Texas, and after graduation moved to Corpus Christi. Sammy began working as a fashion model, and then began her lifelong career as a home designer and decorator. During her years as owner of Lee-Cunningham, she created many beautiful homes and special business friendships. She volunteered at the Church of the Good Shepherd Corner, the Spohn Hospital Gift Shop, sponsored, along with her husband, children in the Big Brother/Sister program and supported Kiwanis charitable and civic activities. Sammy is preceded in death by her loving husband, Charles R. Cunningham and her devoted dog, Buster. She is survived by her stepson, Charles W. Cunningham and his wife, Gretchen and four grandchildren, David, Shannon, Rebecca and Catherine of Park City, Utah. She is also survived by her niece, Cherie Leighton and her son, Jake of Beeville and Austin, Texas; brother-in-law, Bill Cunningham of Corpus Christi, sisters-in-law, Eulma Montgomery and Melba Butler of Corpus Christi and Chouteau, Oklahoma, and numerous dear friends and family members, whom Sammy adored and treasured. Dee Najar, Sammy’s caregiver of thirty years, also survives her and the family wishes to express their gratitude for her friendship and service. Sammy enjoyed music, traveling and outdoor activities, such as hunting and bicycling with her husband, family and friends. She was always ready to “Go� and “Do�. Sammy’s joy in life was entertaining her friends and family. She was never seen sitting down at any gathering; as she was too busy serving others. Sammy was a good listener and gave support and love to all. She brought beauty and joy to every occasion, business or personal. Our “Sweet Sammy� will be missed. Visitation will be held on Sunday, July 20, 2008 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Seaside Funeral Home. A Memorial Service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Monday, July 21, 2008 at the Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd with reception to follow. A private burial will be held at Seaside Memorial Park prior to the Memorial Service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations sent to the Alzheimer’s Association, STAR Chapter, P.O. Box 34566, San Antonio, Texas 78265 or to the Hospice Vista Care at Trinity Towers, 101 N. Upper Broadway, Corpus Christi, Texas 78401.