Lessie Mae Cunningham was born on February 14, 1920 in Alexander City, Alabama to Icye and Shobie Cunningham. She was the oldest of three daughters. She is preceded in death by her parents Icye and Shobie, and sisters Lucille Cunningham and Dorothy Frances (William).

Lessie grew up in the segregated South, and moved to Cleveland, Ohio as a young adult. She worked at the Veterans Administration in Cleveland, Ohio for 30 years in the dietary department. While there, Lessie received numerous awards and recognitions. The benefits of her love for food preparation extended to our home. Post retirement, Lessie continued to work taking care of children in our home.

Most important, Lessie loved the Lord. Her relationship with the Lord was evident to all who knew her. She had a gift to discern the anointing on one’s life, and didn’t want to waste her time if the anointing of God was not present. When her health was good, she faithfully attended Sunday school, Bible study, choir rehearsals, and church service. Let’s not forget her readiness to attend afternoon services. Upon coming to Cleveland, she joined Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church, where Reverend Leroy Kelly was the pastor. She later became a charter member of Sanctuary Missionary Baptist Church, in July, 1981, where Reverend Herbert Smith was the pastor.

Additionally, Lessie loved to watch sports, movies, and listen to music. Some of her favorite artists were Aretha Franklin, James Cleveland, The Hawkins Singers, The Mighty Clouds of Joy and the Mighty O’Jays.

In 2011, Lessie moved into The Avenue Nursing Home where she lived for the past nine years. While at The Avenue, she was very active in Bible class, music, baking, and taking care of the plants. Lessie was often referred to as “This Little Light of Mine”.

Lessie leaves to cherish her memory her daughter Sara Lynn, and nieces Shirley Faye Fraser (Allan) and Michelle Davis (Aaron) of Providence, Rhode Island.