Samuel Miles Cunningham, age 95, of Mannington passed away on Monday (October 29, 2018). Miles was born November 8, 1922. He was the son of the late Reverend S.B. Cunningham and Minnie Haught Cunningham.
Miles was a Nationwide Insurance Agent and a Funeral Director for W.F. Jones Funeral Home and Masters Funeral Home. He was a graduate of Magnolia High School. He also graduated from Fairmont State University with a degree in Business Administration, and the Cincinnati School of Embalming.
Miles was an active member of the community having served on many committees over the years for the City of Mannington. He was also very active in many civic organizations over the years and held many offices in them. These included the American Legion Post #40, Mannington Elks Lodge, Augusta Chapter #6 Order of Eastern Star, Mannington AF&AM Masonic Lodge #31, Mannington Lions Club and the Mountaineer Beagle Club. He was an active member of First United Methodist Church and was currently a committee chairman.
In addition to his parents, Miles was preceded in death by his loving wife of 71 years, Jeanette Sturm Cunningham, his Mother and Father-in-law, Forest and Gladys Sturm, and two brothers, Sterling and Edwin Cunningham.
He is survived by a son Alan (Diana) Cunningham, a daughter Janet Cunningham, and a sister Betty Cunningham, all of Mannington. Also surviving are several nieces and nephews.
Miles was a World War II Veteran having served in the Army/Air Force stationed in Italy. He flew 50 combat missions as a tail-gunner. He enjoyed hunting, reading, being with people and his many friends and family. In his younger years, he enjoyed raising beagles and participating in field trials.
A Special Thanks to Dr. Sudha Katragadda and staff, and his caregivers Betty Taylor and Bernetta Kolb for their excellent care over the years.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to First United Methodist Church, 118 Clarksburg St., Mannington, WV 26582. Friends may call at Masters Funeral Home, Mannington, WV on Thursday, November 1, 2018 from 2-9pm. Funeral services will be held on Friday, November 2, 2018 beginning at 1:00pm with Pastor David Yanero and Jerry Bush officiating. Interment will follow at the Mannington Cemetery. On-line condolences may be left at www.mastersfuneralhomewv.com
Janet, I am saddened in your and Allen's lost of both your father and mother. Harold and I were of the many people who knew them both and feel your lose. They both were special people, but who would know that any better than you. Some times we are at a lose of words for others, I find that is my problem as I write this to you now. Take much comfort in the wonderful parents you had, so many people never experience that. Also much comfort in the wonderful daughter (and Allen as a son, although I don't know him as well as I know you.)
Of the people I have loved most and lost, I know the grief and yet the comfort of knowing they are with the Lord now. It is of those of us, who remain here on earth, that it is difficult for. Yet we will see them again. In the mean time, if you ever want to talk on the phone, or stop by you are welcome. Remember I am one of those Snyder's from Hundred. Your grandmother, Mother and I talked of it often when I fixed their hair in the Beauty shop. I also did your hair as a child, I am sure we could talk of many things, and a favorite to me is my last part of a career as a teacher. I loved my students and I have often heard you were one of the BEST!
I don't get out much now, especially winter, but I would look forward to going to lunch or even a good movie sometime. If and when you and I can arrange that.
I pray you are hearing the heartfelt mourning I have with you, and the love of your wonder family including Grandmother Gladys Snyder Sturm.
I send you sincere love and caring, Donna Rosencrance 304-986-2760