Clara Marie Cunningham

CUNNINGHAM

Clara Marie Cunningham, 95, was born in Woodstock, Ohio, on July 5, 1930, to Floyd and Ada Howell-Edley. She passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, on Saturday, January 10, 2026.

Clara accepted Christ at an early age and lived her life rooted in faith and service. She was united in marriage to Sherman Cunningham, and together they were the proud parents of five children.

A devoted member of First Baptist Church in London, Ohio, Clara was the church’s oldest member. Before her health declined, she faithfully served in numerous ministries, including the Missionary Ministry, the 12 Sisters Club, the Sunshine Club, and the Socialites. She also volunteered at the local food pantry, always giving with a joyful and willing heart.

Known for her compassion, Clara was a caregiver and babysitter to many families' children. Her life reflected her deep love for others and her commitment to serving wherever she was needed.

Clara found joy in having flowers in her yard and watching hummingbirds; the simple pleasures that brought her great happiness.

She leaves to cherish her memory her daughters Donna (Edward) Wade, Phyllis Cosby, Charlene Jones, and Betty McCauley. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Theresa (Michael) Sheets, Shawn (Richard) Smith, Kevin Wade, James (Jessica) Cunningham Jr., Chad (Stephanie) Cunningham, Jamie Peterson, Erica Cooper, Jephtha Snow, Jackie Cosby, Jason (Ashley) Cosby, Stacy (Robert) Hearns, Lori McCauley, and Bobby Cunningham; special granddaughters and caregivers Jennifer and Samantha McCauley; adopted grandson Mario Rivers, many great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, a great-great-great-grandchild and she was also blessed to have several bonus grandchildren.

Clara was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Sherman Cunningham; her son, James Cunningham Sr.; her siblings and their spouses Opal (Lloyd) Cunningham, Donald Edley, Lloyd Edley, Howard (Martha) Edley, and Robert (Margaret) Edley; her sons-in-law Adon Cosby, Gilbert Jones, and J.D. McCauley; Father and mother-in-law Wilson and Helen Cunningham and her sister-in-law Charlotte Johnson; brother-in-law Carse Cunningham.

Visitation for family and friends will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2026, from 10:00 AM – 12:00 Noon in the First Baptist Church, 250 Toland Street, London, Ohio 43140. Funeral services will commence at 12:00 Noon. Interment will follow in Oak Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Mount Carmel Foundation: 3100 Easton Square Place, Suite 300, Columbus, OH 43219 or the First Baptist Church: 250 Toland Street London, OH 43140.

The EBERLE-FISHER FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORY, 103 North Main Street, London, Ohio 43140, is honored to be caring for the Cunningham family during this difficult time. Condolences and prayers from the family are encouraged to be shared online at www.eberlefisherfuneralhome.com.