Rick Cunningham

Rick Cunningham obituary, Tuscaloosa, AL

Rick Cunningham

Upcoming Events

Jan

30

Service

2:00 p.m.

Shades Mountain Community Church

2281 Old Tyler Rd, Hoover, AL 35226

Send Flowers

Only 1 day left for delivery to next service.

Rick Cunningham Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Tuscaloosa Memorial Chapel Funeral Home, Memorial Park, and Crematory on Jan. 27, 2026.
Richard "Rick" Edward Cunningham Jr., age 69, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, January 25, 2026, surrounded by his family. A Celebration of Life service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, January 30, 2026, at Shades Mountain Community Church in Hoover, Alabama.

He is preceded in death by his father Richard Edward Cunningham Sr. and his mother Retha Lamone Stevenson.

He is survived by his wife Kristi Cunningham; daughter Shannon Payton (Dalton); and known as "Papa" to his grandchildren, Nash and Lera Payton; sisters, Roxanne Cunningham and Sheri Quale (Jason); nephews, Ryan Eaves and Noah Quale; niece Adilyn Quale; and many cousins and friends.

Rick was a graduate of Homewood High School where he played baseball and football and was also a proud member of the 1974 state championship team. Rick was an Eagle Scout and carried the values of leadership, service and integrity throughout his life. He was also member of the former Alberta United Methodist Tuscaloosa as well as Trinity UMC Homewood.

The family suggests memorial contributions be sent to Bruno Cancer Center at St Vincent's Birmingham.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

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Not sure what to say?

Earlier today

Scott, Mary, Natalie, & Elise (Swindles) posted to the memorial.

Earlier today

Tracy Lillard posted to the memorial.

January 27, 2026

Tuscaloosa Memorial Chapel Funeral Home, Memorial Park, and Crematory announced events.

3 Entries

Scott, Mary, Natalie, & Elise (Swindles)

Earlier today

Our hearts go out to your family during this difficult time. Rick was such a genuine and wonderful person. I can only imagine the kind of Papa he must have been. This is certainly a big loss for many, but Rick will always be adored in the memories of so many people.

Tracy Lillard

Earlier today

My sincere condolences to your loss of Rick. May he rest in peace and comfort in God's hands and continue to share his memories with love and honor. Please let me know if there is anything you need.

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Tuscaloosa Memorial Chapel Funeral Home, Memorial Park, and Crematory

5434 Old Birmingham Highway, Tuscaloosa, AL 35404

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Upcoming Events

Jan

30

Service

2:00 p.m.

Shades Mountain Community Church

2281 Old Tyler Rd, Hoover, AL 35226

Send Flowers

Only 1 day left for delivery to next service.