Janet F. Cunningham

Janet was born in Kingston, Jamaica to Rennie and Amelyn Hill on October 3, 1953, and in later years, was "born again" into the family of God. She loved the book of Psalms, with Psalm 27 being her favorite.
Janet was the 8th child of thirteen siblings and was predeceased by her father, Rennie and mother, Amelyn, her sister Deserene Hill Lockhart, brothers, DeCordiva, Albert, and Tex, and is survived by her brothers Kingsley, Dudley, Donald, Phillip, and Stevie, and sisters Yvonne (Carol), Judith, and Charmaine (Claire).
Janet was a loving, caring mother and grandmother. She is survived by her children, Athonia, Shari, and Antonio (fondly known as Marky), as well as her grandchildren, Fayden and Shawnee. She was predeceased by her eldest son, Earl V. Cunningham, Jr.
She was fondly called "Ren" after her father, Rennie "Papa Rennie & Pops"
Janet attended Holy Trinity Junior Secondary School, then later pursued a career in Cosmetology. She later married Earl V. Cunningham Sr. and immigrated to the United States, initially residing in Brooklyn, New York, before moving to Orange, New Jersey, where she resided until her passing.
In many ways, Janet was like a giant, assuming a matriarchal role in the family, as she consistently initiated, planned, and organized the family's various annual dinners and other events.
Janet had a big heart, tuned in to the needs of others. Helping wasn't just something she did – it was part of her identity. Whenever she saw someone struggling or heard about a need in her community, she didn't wait to be asked; once she was committed, due to her tenacious nature, she acted without hesitation (Matthew 5:13-16). She followed through with quiet determination. If she couldn't personally take care of it, she would rally the right people, make the calls, connect the dots, and coordinate every detail until she knew it was resolved. She didn't do things halfway.
That same spirit of compassion extended beyond her personal circle. Janet was a faithful giver to causes close to her heart, especially St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. She believed deeply in their mission and gave regularly and quietly, because she felt no one should have to face illness alone. Her generosity wasn't about recognition – it was about making sure others had a chance, a hope, a future.
Janet lived with a deep sense of purpose. Her love wasn't passive; it was active, generous, and unwavering. Whether it was offering a ride, preparing a meal, organizing support behind the scenes, or donating to a cause she believed in. She enjoyed giving gifts to her loved ones. Janet gave of herself repeatedly and has given away the last of certain items that she loves dearly to others whom she thought needed them more. In doing so, she made the world softer, stronger, and better for all of us. (Proverbs 11:25)