Carl James “C.J.” Cunningham was born September 6, 1987, in Charleston, South Carolina to his parents, Norman and Vickie Cunningham of Phillipsburg. He passed away suddenly at his home in Philipsburg, on Tuesday, January 30, 2024, at the age of thirty-six years, four months and twenty-four days.
C.J. spent most of his life in Lebanon and the Laclede County area. He was a 2006 graduate of Lebanon High School. Following high school, he began his career as a welder and was very accomplished at his craft. He then changed his career path and became a cook. He was currently serving as a cook at Cedarhurst Senior Living in Lebanon.
C.J. was preceded in death by his maternal grandmother Orvaleen Francis and his paternal grandparents, Lonnie Cunningham; and Vedora Cunningham.
He is survived by his parents, Norman and Vickie Cunningham of Phillipsburg; his sister, Sarah Knudtson and her husband Brandon of Lebanon; his grandfather, Don Francis of Buffalo; his niece and nephew, Chloe and Colson Knudtson; aunts, uncles and other relatives and friends.
C.J. loved his motorcycle and his truck. He enjoyed being outdoors and going hunting and fishing. When he was around his sister, Sarah, you just knew he was teasing and pestering her. He did that all the time and was good at it. He had a good sense of humor and was good at making people laugh. He received joy by helping everyone.
C.J.’s life hadn’t always been easy, as he went through a very dark time. Over the last two years, he had overcome his addictions and was a clean and changed person. He had made peace with his Lord and Savior and had a deep abiding love for his family and friends.
He was very involved with his family and his loss leaves a great void. We celebrate his life and his accomplishments and know that his family and friends will treasure the wonderful memories he made with them.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 3, 2024, at Holman-Howe Funeral Home in Lebanon. Visitation will be Saturday from 1 p.m.-2 p.m. in the funeral home.
Arrangements are under the direction of Holman-Howe Funeral Home of Lebanon.
For more information or to visit the website go to www.holmanhowe.com.
