Clarence Cunningham Jr.

In Loving Memory: Celebrating the Life of an Extraordinary Man
With heavy hearts and countless fond memories, we come together to recognize and honor the remarkable life of Clarence Cunningham Jr., whose presence touched many and left an extraordinary mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him. Clarence's journey began on August 23rd, 1942, in Huntsville, TX and concluded on July 27th, 2023, and the impact he made during his time will resonate with us forever.
Early in life, Clarence left home at the age of 14 and moved to Dallas, TX, where he worked at Goodwill, Sears & Roebuck, JC Penny, and took on odd jobs before enlisting in the Army Branch of the United States Military. He was a man of honor, faithfully serving his country during the Vietnam War and was honorably discharged in December 1962. He then moved to Houston, TX, where he worked for Union Pacific Railroad before venturing into entrepreneurship and running several successful businesses.
Born with a radiant spirit and an unwavering passion for life, Clarence had an uncanny ability to light up any room he entered. His infectious loving nature and warm smile were like beacons of joy, lifting the spirits of those around him during both life's triumphs and challenges. In the face of adversity, Clarence exhibited strength and resilience, being an example to us all to continue to fight and push through even in the most challenging moments.
Throughout his journey of life, Clarence was the epitome of passion and strength, demonstrating boundless love, kindness, and being a fierce protector for all those he loved. His ability to listen, give sound advice, and understand without judgment fostered a sense of comfort and trust that allowed people to open their hearts freely and connect. Countless friendships were created and nurtured, and lives were forever changed by the kind and giving nature Clarence bestowed on those he encountered - a true testament to the power of genuine love and acceptance.
A true Renaissance soul, Clarence pursued a myriad of passions; from entrepreneurial endeavors to fishing, to being masterful at barbecuing. He always seemed to find his shine and was always willing to share his knowledge with others to help them grow along the way.
Clarence was not one to sit still. Even until his last day, you would find him cutting yards, clearing vacant homes, performing carpentry work, and other odd jobs to keep himself active and busy.
Clarence had a deep love for cars and kept them super clean, especially his affinity and adoration for Cadillacs. And you couldn't lean on them, especially if you had on denim. He loved to keep it clean and classy. Even in his departure from this earth, while cruising along forever in our hearts to his final resting place, he's still riding in style, his way, in a Cadillac.
Clarence Cunningham Jr was a loving husband, a dedicated father, an amazing brother, best uncle ever, cousin and a true friend. He is preceded in death by his brother James Earl Cunningham (aka Uncle Fat), and son Larry Cunningham. He leaves to cherish in his memory: a loving wife, Linda Cunningham. Children: Alex Cunningham (W) LaTonya, Vincent (Earl) Cunningham (W) Charlene, Tonya Cunningham-Body (H) Truman, Felicia Cunningham (aka Lisa), Christopher Cunningham (aka Chris) (W) Jasmine, Gregory Cunningham, Gwendolyn Cunningham, Pamela Cunningham-Del La Cruz (H) Andrew, Clarence Brooks, Nicholas Brooks. Sisters: Dorothy Cunningham, Ruby Armelin, JoAnne Freeman, Larenitha Brown (H) Wayne. Brothers: Terrance Cunningham, Stanley Cunningham.
Host of Loveables: grandchildren, great-grandchildren, cousins, nieces, nephews, family and friends. He leaves a legacy of greatness, wisdom, kindness, love and joyful memories.
As a devoted son, father, brother, cousin, uncle and grandfather, Clarence cherished and nurtured the bonds of kinship, placing family at the core of his life. His love for his children showed up through everything that he did. He was rooted deeply in their lives, as you will see his light continue to shine through them.
Clarence's legacy of love and giving extended beyond his immediate circle, as he also dedicated himself to uplifting his community and making it a better place. From the Cunningham Grocery Store, social bars, a game room, to being a landlord providing housing for others, to his involvement in his church, he knew the community needed more, and he certainly provided. A true leader and provider at his core!
Though Clarence is no longer physically here on this earth, his essence will forever live in our hearts. Let us honor his memory by continuing his legacy of strength, support, compassion, curiosity, love, and giving. As we celebrate his life, we find solace in knowing that Clarence's spirit lives on through the countless lives he touched.
In celebration of Clarence's life, we invite you to join us in a memorial service at Good Samaritan Baptist Church at 5901 Cavalcade Street, Houston, TX 77026 on August 8, 2023, at 10:30 am, where we will come together to share stories, laughter, and tears as we remember the beautiful soul that has left an indelible impression on us all.
"Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away."
"He made broken look beautiful and strong look invincible. He walked with the universe on his shoulders and made it look like a pair of wings."
"If I had a flower for every time I thought of you, I could walk in my own garden forever."
"My father didn't tell me how to live; he lived, and let me watch him do it."
May his soul rest in eternal peace.
Always a pillar of strength, even til his final moments he fought to his last breath.