Wanda Jeanette Cunningham

It is with heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the passing of Wanda Jeanette Cunningham, who departed this world peacefully on March 21, 2026, at the age of 87. Jeanette, as she was affectionately known, was born on May 3, 1938, in Deleon, Texas, to her loving parents Cora Juanita Bunting and Travis Lenoy Bunting. She was preceded in eternal rest by her cherished parents, her youngest son James Cunningham, and her younger brother, Larry Bunting. Jeanette leaves behind a legacy of love and resilience, survived by her devoted family: her eldest son Joseph Cunningham and his wife Donna, her son Andy Cunningham and his wife Denise, and her daughter Holly Hatfield and her husband Kevin. She was the proud and beloved grandmother to four grandchildren: Caleb Cunningham, Kelli Cunningham, Mark Hatfield, and Scott Hatfield. Her legacy continues to shine brightly in the lives of her two great-grandchildren, Sarai Medley and Lucas Medley. Jeanette’s journey through life was one of dedication, service, and unwavering compassion. She began her nursing career at the Hillcrest School of Nursing in Waco, Texas, and furthered her education with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Kansas and a Master of Public Health in Occupational Health from the University of Utah. Her tireless dedication to nursing was evident in her various roles across the country, including positions at the Southwestern Baptist University in Bolivar, MO, Methodist Hospital in Houston, TX, Huntsman Petrochemical Corp in Houston, TX, Abbott United Care in Salt Lake City, UT, St. Luke's Hospital in Kansas City, and the former hospital in Humansville, MO. Jeanette proudly served her country as part of the United States Army Nurse Corps Reserves, where she was deployed to Landstuhl, Germany, during Operation Desert Storm. Her commitment to service extended beyond her military duty, as she was an active member of the First Baptist Church of Bolivar, MO, for many years. She played an instrumental role in implementing the Emergency Preparedness Plan for the town of Bolivar, showcasing her unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of her community. In addition to her professional achievements, Jeanette found great joy in her personal pursuits. She was an accomplished watercolor artist and a passionate pianist, who often filled her home with melodies and vibrant colors. Her love for travel and camping led her on many adventures, creating cherished memories with family and friends. Above all, Jeanette treasured the moments spent playing with her great-grandchildren, whose laughter and innocence brought her immense joy. Jeanette’s life was a testament to the power of kindness, resilience, and unconditional love. Her gentle spirit and unwavering dedication to those she loved will be deeply missed but forever cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her. In honoring Jeanette’s wishes, a private funeral ceremony will be held to celebrate her life and legacy. As we remember Jeanette, let us carry forward her warmth, compassion, and the indelible impact she made on the world. May her soul rest in eternal peace, reunited with those she loved and lost, and may her memory be a blessing to all who knew her.