Oleta Ann Cunningham

Oleta Ann Cunningham, age 85, a longtime resident of Anderson, Missouri, departed this life on Tuesday evening, December 16, 2025, at Mercy Hospital in Joplin, Missouri, following a recent decline in health. She entered this life on January 21, 1940, in Wichita, Kansas, born to the union of the late Willard Leroy "Lee" and Ava Oleta (Stamps) Cunningham.

Raised in Anderson, Missouri, Oleta was a graduate of Anderson High School, class of 1958. Oleta's professional journey was marked by loyalty and service; she was a respected employee at Anderson State Bank, later known as Community Bank and Trust, for over thirty-three years. Her commitment to excellence did not wane upon her retirement from the bank, as she went on to work an additional seventeen years at Wal-Mart Headquarters in their Financial Services Division.

Oleta's life was a testament to her faith and her love for her family. An active member of the Anderson Church of Christ, she lived her beliefs through her actions and the kindness she extended to others. Though she never had children of her own, Oleta's heart was never empty. She poured her love into her relationships with her beloved sister, Sandra Kay Pierce of Anderson, Missouri; her niece, Robyn Pierce; her nephew, Darren Pierce, both also of Anderson; her four great-nieces; two great-nephews; and five great-great-nieces and nephews. Each of them benefited from her wisdom, her warmth, and the unwavering support that she so freely gave.

Funeral services are 1:00 p.m. Friday, December 19, 2025 in the Anderson Chapel of the Ozark Funeral Homes with Pastor Tommy Burr officiating. Burial will be in Cummings Cemetery near Tiff City, Missouri. In lieu of flowers, memorials are being directed to the Fair Haven Children's Home or In Search of the Lords Way c/o the funeral home. Arrangements are under the care of Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri.