Catherine J Cunningham

Catherine J. Cunningham of Lakewood Ranch, Florida, wife of the late John J. Cunningham, died on January 7, 2020 just weeks shy of her 100th birthday.  Raised in Newton, Massachusetts, she was the daughter of the late Timothy and Honora Donahue.  She was the devoted mother of John J. Cunningham, Jr. and his wife Nancy and Carol D. Cunningham, the beloved grandmother of John J. Cunningham III and his wife Alexis, and the loving great grandmother of Emma all of Lakewood Ranch, Florida.  She was predeceased by her sisters Mary A. Quigley and Margaret R. Smith and cousin Mary Donovan.  Catherine leaves a number of cherished nieces and nephews and many of her children’s friends whose lives she touched.  

Catherine and her husband, John, were longtime residents of Needham, Massachusetts where they raised their family.  Known for her love of poetry and music, she amazed others with her ability to recite and sing hundreds of poems and songs from memory.  Mostly, she will be remembered for her love of her family and her faith. 

In lieu of flowers, donations in Catherine’s name may be made to Southeastern Guide Dogs, 4210 77th St. East, Palmetto, Florida, 34221, in honor of her faithful companion, the late Clancy.  Or, in her memory to Tidewell Hospice, 5955 Rand Blvd., Sarasota, Florida, 34238, Attention: Donations Department, with thanks to the nurses and doctor who took such wonderful care of her in her final days.

A Celebration of Life will held at 10 a.m., Saturday, February 1, 2020 at the Chapel at Newton Cemetery, 791 Walnut Street, Newton Centre, Massachusetts.   Burial will be private. 

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