Dr. Wallace Cunningham

Dr. Garvin Wallace Cunningham, 79, of Ocean Springs, Mississippi, passed away on Tuesday, December 3, in Ocean Springs. Wallace was born on September 18, 1945, in Baldwyn, Mississippi, to G.C. (John) and Mildred Cunningham. He grew up in Pascagoula, attended Beach School, where he made many lifelong friends, and graduated second in his class from Pascagoula High School in 1963. Wallace attended Tulane University on a National Merit Scholarship from 1963 to 1965, later transferring to the University of Southern Mississippi, where he graduated in 1967 with a BS degree in marine biology. After working offshore as a chemist on oil rigs near Houma, Louisiana for two years, he moved on to the University of Tennessee College of Dentistry in Memphis, graduating with his Doctor of Dental Surgery in 1972. Wallace began his dental practice in Pascagoula and continued there until Hurricane Katrina destroyed his office in 2005. He then joined Coastal Family Health Center in Biloxi, where he practiced until his retirement.
Wallace acquired the nickname 'Ace' in his younger years, signifying his skills as a pitcher in baseball youth leagues. He was the star pitcher on the Pascagoula American League All-Stars when the team won the Babe Ruth League State Championship in 1961, earning them a trip to Atlanta for the regional playoffs. The nickname stuck, and many friends and family, including his two granddaughters, Amelia and Fiona, fondly referred to him as 'Ace.' Wallace had a big heart and often contributed to philanthropic efforts. He had a quick wit with a sharp sense of humor and was an avid sports fan, passing his interest in sports to his sons.
Wallace was preceded in death by his parents, G.C. (John) and Mildred Cunningham. He is survived by his two sons, Bradford Wallace Cunningham (Paula) of Gautier and Gregory Robert Cunningham (Christine) of Pascagoula, his sister, Cynthia Hodges (Jerry) of Gainesville, Virginia, two adoring granddaughters whom he cherished, Amelia Eugenie Cunningham and Fiona Colleen Cunningham, both of Pascagoula, two nieces, Kimberly Widdig (Carl) of Brandon and Karisa Mullinax (Justin) of South Riding, Virginia, and his loving and devoted companion of 30 years, Janie Mae, who shared many happy memories with him and who will miss him greatly. Wallace leaves behind other relatives and many dear friends.
Southern Mississippi Funeral Services are honored to serve the Cunningham family. Please visit www.smfs.us to send your condolences and share your memories.