Marianna Cunningham

Marianna Cunningham of Saint Petersburg, Florida passed away on April 1, 2025, at Tampa General Hospital. She was born on January 7, 1928, in Queens, New York, to Bernhard and Anna (Brinkmann) Jacobs. 

In her early years, Marianna moved with her family to Millerton, New York, where her parents operated a dairy farm and welcomed seasonal boarders from New York City. She later attended New Paltz College, earning an associate degree in mathematics. 

On December 1, 1957, Marianna married Philip Cunningham. Together they made their home in Amenia, New York and raised three children. She dedicated more than 30 years of service to the Wassaic Developmental State Institution, where she played a pivotal role in establishing the Foster Grandparent Program. 

Marianna was known for her warmth and generosity. She had a deep love for cooking and baking and was always ready with a smile and a helping hand.

 She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters Elaine Pitcher and Mildred Skinner; husband Philip Cunningham; numerous sisters- and brothers-in-law; and three nephews. 

She is survived by her sister Eleanor Fenn of Clearwater, Florida; her children Kathleen (Steve) Jordan, Kenneth City, Fl., Robert (Suzanne) Cunningham, Saint Petersburg, Fl., and William (Jackie) Cunningham, Durham, N.C.; grandchildren Sarah (Greg) Allen, Stacey (Mitchell) McNeil Jr., Joshua (Allison) Cunningham, Adam Jordan, John Paul Hollandsworth, and Audrey (Joseph) Marlin; and great-grandchildren Willian McNeil and Hauver Cunningham, Cayden Marlin. 

Marianna’s legacy of kindness and dedication will be remembered fondly by all who knew her. May her memory bring comfort to those she touched throughout her long and meaningful life.

                Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.

                                               Psalm: 119:105