John Sherman Cunningham

John Sherman Cunningham, 86, of Pace Florida passed away peacefully with family by his side on Sunday, July 20, 2025. John was born to his parents John and Bertha Verteen Cunningham on November 26,1938 in Galion, Ohio. He is preceded in death by both his parents, his three siblings Jerry, Jack and Sheryl and the love of his life, his wife of sixty years Mary Elizabeth. He is survived by his daughters, Traci (John) Clancy, Verteen (Marty) Morris and his three grandchildren who meant the absolute world to him, Kevin Clancy, Florence, Alabama, Emily (Collin) Hargett, Pace, Florida and Patrick Clancy, Lubbock, Texas. He is also survived by many friends and family close to his heart across the country including his cousins, nieces, nephews and sister-in-law and several he called his own. He was an absolutely amazing father and grandfather, most known as Pop. John joined the United States Navy when he was 17 yrs old. He went on to serve our Country for twenty-two years and then continued his career as a civilian for several years after. He had an amazing career, traveled the world with his family, most notably several years in Japan where the entire family embraced the culture and enjoyed every minute. Made such special friends. He was a Vietnam Vet and served on Lake Champlain as well as other carriers. He was so proud of his military career and so proud and honored of all those who served. He and his wife Mary had a mission in retirement to help all Veterans that served. Amazing how many lives they touched. After retirement, he went to work for the United States Postal Service. That too was very rewarding starting with delivering mail and ending career working with computers. He was a hard worker, but most important was his family. He supported both his daughters in all they took part in, but also “adopted” their friends. He was an absolutely amazing Grandfather. The kids were his world. He didn’t miss much of anything they did, loved to brag on them and spoiled them maybe just a little. He couldn’t wait for our annual Florida v. South Carolina football games. He encouraged his children and grandchildren to complete their education, and they have all exceeded his expectations. If you spent time with him, you knew about his grandchildren within minutes. Our family would like to thank so many that played a role in his health. Blessed by the VA, Dr. Gonzales and his team were beyond amazing. Thank you to HCA Florida West, Home Helpers, Woodlands Medical Specialists, Dr. Ryan, Dr. Greskovich and Dr. Joudeh and the staff at Vitas and all the healthcare workers that played a part in his journey. Hillary, Heather and all their crew were so wonderful to work with we will always be grateful. For the past four years, he lived at Arcadia Senior Living in Pace, and oh the friends he made, the activities he participated in and the staff were so special to all of us. So many became new members of our family. Thank you so much. Pallbearers will be Marty Morris, John Clancy, Kevin Clancy, Collin Hargett, Chris Cutchens and John Fletcher. Honorary Pallbearers, Patrick Clancy and Ed McCleese. The family will have a private viewing for immediate family at 11:30 am on Wednesday, July 30th at Faith Chapel, Beverly Parkway, Pensacola. There will be a Graveside Service at NAS Pensacola, and those who would like to attend, please join the procession lining up at Faith Chapel at Noon with departure at 12:15 for 1:00 p.m. service at NAS Pensacola. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Wreaths Across America to honor our Veterans and their families. Special thanks to Faith Chapel as well. The family invites you to join them after the service at the Clubhouse at Galia Condominiums, near back gate of NAS, 10045 Sinton Drive Pensacola, Florida 32507.

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John Sherman Cunningham

November 26, 1938 - July 20, 2025