United States Army Korean War Veteran, James Louis Cunningham, 90, passed away on Wednesday, May 13, 2020 at his home.

He was born on September 1, 1929 in Madisonville to the late Goldie Taylor Cunningham and Elby Louis Cunningham. James retired after thirty-four years as a coal miner from Island Creek Coal Company and owned and operated Cunningham Fencing. He was a member of Maranatha Baptist Church in Madisonville. James lovingly called Pops by his family and friends was a very hard working man whom most admired. He was one man you will never regret meeting. He will dearly be missed by many.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his three brothers; one sister; and his grandchildren, Danny Shorette and Michael Shorette.

Survivors include his wife of seventy years, Beatrice Cunningham; Son, Gary Cunningham of Madisonville; daughters, Debbie (Don) Cottrell of Hanson, KY and Kathy Shorette Ruby of Madisonville; brother, Ronnie (Crena) Cunningham of Manitou, KY; sister, Sue (John) Knight of Madisonville; four grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandson; and several nieces and nephews.

A private funeral service will held on Sunday, May 17, 2020 in the chapel of Harris Funeral Home in Madisonville with Pastor Chris Whitmer officiating. Burial to follow at Olive Branch Cemetery in Hanson. Military honors will be conducted graveside by the Hopkins County Honor Guard at a later date.