Florence Josephine "Jo" Cunningham

Florence Josephine Cunningham, known affectionately as “Jo” to her friends and family, was the youngest of 12 children. She was born in Sedgwick, Colorado, and it was in Colorado where she met her future husband, John W. Cunningham while working as a secretary at Camp Carson, where he was stationed in the US Army. 
 
 They celebrated their 64th wedding anniversary in February of 2020.

 Jo is survived by her husband, John W. Cunningham, and their children, Ronald (Gail) Cunningham, Penny (Bill) Louya, Jill (Dave) Cunningham Harris, William Clark Cunningham II, along with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  

 She was preceded in death by her daughter Carol Denise Cunningham, who died at birth.

 After the children were grown and living their own lives, Jo traveled extensively throughout Europe and China and took her experiences as inspiration to obtain a college degree.  In 1990, she graduated with honors from the University of South Carolina, at Aiken, with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and History. 

 Jo was active in her community as a volunteer for the Boys & Girls Club, directing both Adult and Junior church choirs, teaching Sunday School and helping mission churches in the area.  Jo was President of the Hospital Auxillary for Aiken Regional Medical Center.  She also served as secretary of the School of Business and then as Director of the USC Aiken Alumni Association until her retirement in 1997.

 During their retirement, Jo and John enjoyed following sports at USCA and actively supported the Pacer sports teams.  In 2011, Jo received the Meredith Legg Inspiration Award for “exhibiting courage beyond her years, keeping a positive attitude and serving as an inspiration to all.”

 As a member of the “Greatest Generation,” Jo was a compassionate, caring woman, a devoted wife, mother, and proud grandmother.  Her dedication to family and service inspired friends and colleagues alike.

 The family will receive friends Friday morning, January 26th, beginning at 11 o’clock at Shellhouse – Rivers Funeral Home.  The funeral service will follow at noon with The Rev. George F. Alexander officiating.   Interment will follow in Historic Bethany Cemetery.

 In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the Michael J. Fox Foundation (michaeljfox.org), or to All Saint's Anglican Church, 110 Fairfield St., NE, Aiken, SC 29801.

 SHELLHOUSE – RIVERS FUNERAL HOME, 715 EAST PINE LOG RD., AIKEN, SC