Richard Leroy Cunningham was the third child born to Roy and Ruth Cunningham on October 8, 1934, in Amsterdam, NY.
Dick attended Broadalbin elementary school and graduated from Broadalbin High School. He went on to study Drafting in Schenectady, NY.
While in High School Dick was an avid sportsman. He played baseball and basketball and participated in track. As an adult, he continued his love for sports. He played in the church softball league until he was in his 50’s. He was good at tennis, loved fishing, enjoyed playing golf with his wife and sons, and even until his passing he played pickleball at the YMCA.
On July 16, 1955, Dick and Retha Crannell were married at the Broadalbin Baptist Church. God blessed them with three children, Sallie married to Jim Carroll (they have 4 children and 10 grandchildren); Robert who’s wife Myra passed away last year (they have 2 children, 6 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren); Tom, married to Rose (they have 2 children and 3 grandchildren).
In case you were trying to count, Dick had 3 children, 8 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, 11 great-great-grandchildren).
Dick worked at General Electric as a draftsman for more than 20 years.
The most important thing in Dick’s life took place when he was about 7 years old. He trusted the Lord Jesus as his savior while at the Sacandaga Bible Conference in Broadalbin.
As an adult he served as chairman of the deacons, taught Sunday School, led the worship service, participated in the Evangelism Explosion program of the church, and served as the choir director at Immanuel Baptist Church in Syracuse where they lived. After retiring to Florida Dick & Retha found a home at Starkey Road Baptist Church and Dick faithfully attended and served there.
Dick suffered a heart attack on the 30th of April and entered into His Savior’s presence Sunday May 4th.
Services will be held at Starkey Road Baptist Church, 8800 Starkey Road, Largo, FL, 33777. Friday May 9th. Calling hours 1pm, followed by a Celebration of Life service at 2pm.
In lieu of flowers donations go to the Wordless Book Ministry at Starkey Road Baptist Church.
7 Responses
He was one of the most loving people I’ve ever had in my life. Both he and Reatha became my family and I will miss him tremendously.
An AWESOME man, incredible couple and a family I’ve been privileged to know since birth!! Love you all and praying you through your GREAT loss!! ❤️
We have many fond memories of Dick, Retha and the family over many years. We send our sincere condolences, but we know he’s gone to a much better place. No doubt Dick received a hearty “Well done, good and faithful servant” when he entered God’s presence.
Dear,
Tom, Bob, Sally& Retha,
I just wanted say how sorry we are for your loss,
There is nothing harder than saying goodbye.
Out thoughts and prayers are with you all and especially aunt Retha.
Having a life long love and companion is very hard to loose, thank God you have always had a strong connection to God, may that be your rock.
All our love,
Bren
Dick was always kind. He lead the singing in our church in Phoenix, NY. He always had a smile on his face! He was a faithful follower of Jesus. A good husband and father, a good friend! Glad I got to see him and Rhetha at church the last time I was there!
May God comfort you all, knowing you will see him again!! 🙏🏻❤️
I loved Dick and was so blessed to have him and his family in my life for so many years. I remember all the times we served in Awana together at Immanuel, also enjoying his wonderful singing voice as he led and participated in choir. Many good times were had at his home in Ira. I especially am thankful for his and Retha’s help to me as I struggled to carry my third child to term. They were always willing to help if anyone needed anything. I know Dick is in heaven with the Lord and it gives me joy to think that he is with my husband and they are celebrating together. Whenever I get to talking too fast or too long, I will remember Dick taking a “breath” for me, as he did for so many years. I will miss him.
I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Dick. My condolences to the whole family.
I have known Dick only for a couple of years and I instantly liked him. I met Dick at the YMCA and we always played our first game together. He was a very strong player hitting the ball effortlessly. I will miss Dick’s sweet smile and his cute giggle. RIP Dick.