Marlene Cunningham

September 11, 1947 - May 4, 2026 It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Marlene Cunningham, beloved wife, cherished mother and grandmother, devoted sister, and loyal friend, on May 4, 2026. Marlene departed this world at the age of 78, surrounded by the love and warmth of her family. Born to William and Mildred Curtis on September 11, 1947, in Detroit, Michigan, Marlene grew up in a household filled with love and laughter. She graduated from Edsel Ford High School in Dearborn, Michigan, in 1966, marking the beginning of a life characterized by hard work, determination, and an unwavering spirit. At the tender age of 16, Marlene met the love of her life, James "Jim" Cunningham. Their story is one of enduring love and companionship, as they married four years later and embarked on a journey that spanned more than five decades. Together, they built a successful plumbing business in 1977, where Marlene served as the bookkeeper and controller, working tirelessly by Jim's side for over 46 years. Her keen organizational skills and business acumen were instrumental to the success of their enterprise. Marlene was the proud mother of two sons, Chad and Dustan, who, along with their wives Karey and Jennifer, blessed her with six wonderful grandchildren. Her family was her greatest joy, and she relished every moment spent with them. Whether cheering from the sidelines at her sons’ sporting events or supporting her grandchildren's endeavors, Marlene's love was a constant, guiding force in their lives. A true sports enthusiast, Marlene's passion extended beyond her family. She was a devoted fan of professional and college teams, especially those from her beloved hometown. In her younger years, she was an avid runner and biker, competing in numerous races alongside Jim. Her competitive spirit and love for sports were surpassed only by her love for her family and faith. Marlene was known as a person of profound integrity and resilience, traits she carried with grace throughout her life. She was known for her strong will, warmth, and unwavering devotion to her faith—a faith that provided her with strength and comfort in all of life's seasons. Marlene's legacy is one of love, dedication, and an unyielding spirit. Her life was a testament to the power of family, faith, and community. She leaves behind a tapestry of cherished memories and a family deeply grateful for the time they had with her. The family will hold a celebration of Marlene's life, a tribute to the remarkable woman she was and the love she shared with all who knew her. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a charity of your choice in Marlene's memory, honoring her generous spirit and commitment to helping others. Marlene Cunningham's light will continue to shine in the hearts of those she touched, a beautiful reminder of a life well-lived and a love that endures.