Regina (GiGi) Andra Cunningham

HER STORY

A Time of Birth… Regina Andra Cunningham was born on May 5, 1956, in Naples, Texas. Her parents were Mary Louise Turner and Elsa Smith.

A Time of Education… Regina received her education at Madison Elementary, North Junior High School, and Borah High School in Boise, Idaho. She completed two years at Boise State University.

A Time of Religion… Regina accepted Christ at a young age and joined St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church. She later served in various ministries, including the choir, usher, Sunday School teacher, and served as a Deaconess.

A Time of Marriage… Regina married Shellie Arnold Cunningham, Sr. on March 29, 1980. From this union, they had one child, Shellie Arnold Cunningham, Jr.

A Time of Employment… Regina found her calling in education and caregiving. She held various jobs throughout her career, but most recently, she worked as a caregiver for the past 30 years.

A Time of Fun and Hobbies… Regina enjoyed vacations with her sisters, including cruises, and trips to California, Texas, NC, and Atlanta.  Her favorite hobbies were singing and cooking, especially Sweet Potato Pies and Corn Pudding.

A Time to Leave Those She Loved… On Monday, February 24, 2025, God welcomed Regina, an extraordinary and beloved daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, aunt, cousin, and friend, into Heaven. He whispered to her saying, "Come and rest, my child; your work on earth is done."  Waiting for her in Heaven are her parents, Mary Louise Edwards and Elsa Smith, as well as her grandparents, great-grandparents, uncles, aunts, and her baby brother, Kenneth Earl Edwards. Her genuine love and compassion will be deeply missed in the days to come. However, the memories of her and the lessons she taught will forever resonate in the hearts of her family and friends.

A Time for Loved Ones to Cherish Her Memory… Regina is survived by her son, Shellie Cunningham, Jr. of Boise, ID; one stepdaughter, Brandy Lynch of Boise, ID; two granddaughters, Jaliyah Cunningham and JaNessa Cunningham, of Boise, ID. She is also survived by six siblings: Sandra Benson of Meridian, ID; Denise Smith of Boise, ID; Melba Smith (Bosah) of San Pablo, CA; Jackie Johnson (Trent) of Benbrook, TX; Kay Berry (George) of Boise, ID; and Robert Hurley (Keeley) of Kennewick, WA, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.