Charles James Cunningham, 91, of Pinch, WV passed away peacefully on July 1, 2026, with his
family by his bedside.
Charles was born on April 5, 1935, in Crichton, WV, to parents Roy Cunningham and Myrtle
Vance Cunningham. He retired from Union Carbide, but spent many years inventing and
building in his basement, especially projects for his grandchildren. In his retirement years, he
enjoyed spending time walking and hiking; many residents of Pinch recognized him best by his
walking stick. In addition to his love of the outdoors, hunting and fishing, he also taught himself
to play many instruments including the guitar, banjo and mandolin. He passed his love of hunting
and fishing and his musical talents down to many of his children, grandchildren and great-
grandchildren. He was also a member of the Walton Masonic Lodge. It was always obvious
though, what made him most proud was the family he came from and the family he raised,
including his five children, eleven grandchildren and eighteen great-grandchildren.
In addition to his parents and four of his siblings, Charles was preceded in death by his beloved
wife Janet Lea Hunt Cunningham. He had missed her terribly since the day she left us and was
ready to be reunited with her for eternity.
He is survived and missed by his children: David (Kelly), Danny (Becky), Susan Ritz, Mark
(Susan) and Tim (Kay); grandchildren: Melody Prouse (Jeff), Miranda Rinck (Justin), Jessica
Cunningham, Amy Casto (Brandon), Michelle McElfish (Kendrick), Amanda Bailey (Justin),
Nicole Jones (Joey), Charles Cunningham (Ellen), Travis Cunningham (Brittany), Stefanie
Henrich (Mark), Andrew Cunningham (Crystal) and 18 great-grandchildren who all loved him
very much. He is also survived by his brother Glen, numerous nieces and nephews and their
families who were very special to him, in addition to his dear friend of many years, Sonny
Matics.
Special thanks to all of the in-home hospice care workers, especially his weekly nurse Gina,
whose visits and conversations gave him something to look forward to in his final months.
Additionally thank you to all of the caregivers at Hubbard Hospice House, who provided the
same amazing care, support and compassion to Charles and his family members as they did
during Janet’s final days.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Hospice Hubbard House 1001 Curtis Price Way,
Charleston 25311. There will be a graveside committal service at 11:00 AM Thursday, July 9,
2026 at Canterbury-Droddy Cemetery Walton, WV.
Arrangemens are in the care of Stump-Matics Funeral Home, 8539 Elk River Road North, Clendenin, WV 25045. Online condolences can be shared with the Cunningham family at www.stumpfuneralhomes.com
