John T. Cunningham

John, “Jack” to many, beloved son, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, friend and faithful servant, went home to be with his Precious Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on April 27, 2014, after a long battle with cancer.
Jack is now at peace in heaven with his wife of 63 years, “Totsy” Margaret Helen (Looney), and his daughter, “Becky” Rebecca (Cerio). He leaves behind, to remember him with love and respect, his son Jeffrey, daughter Kelly (Lance), sons-in-law Michael Cerio and Ronald Lance, daughter-in-law Deborah, seven beautiful granddaughters: Marie, Emily, Bianca, Sophie, Anna, Jordan and Sydney, and two precious great-grandsons: Cooper and Oliver.
Jack was born in Akron, Ohio, on Aug. 6, 1931, to the late John Thomas and Catherine Cunningham and was proud to call Akron home his entire life. He served his country in combat for the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He served his community as a member of the Akron Police Department for over 33 years and was captain of the traffic bureau when he retired. He was also a graduate of the FBI National Academy. After retirement, he became an ordained minister and served as the chaplain for retired police officers. He became the treasurer for Sheriff Drew Alexander for many years and worked as an appraiser for the Summit County Courts.
Jack led a very full and active life and was involved with many nonprofit organizations, churches and community groups. He was a very accomplished stained glass artist and enjoyed several other hobbies such as antiques, collectibles, boating and fishing. He spent time teaching at the University of Akron, serving on several boards - including the Fraternal Order of Police and the Police Retirees at both local and state levels - and The Furnace Street Mission. As chairman of the board of directors for the Furnace Street Mission, Jack helped Rev. Robert Denton and the other board members form the Victim Assistance Program, which has been a model for other assistance programs throughout the country.
A devout Christian, one of Jack’s passions in life was leading others to Christ. He was a member of First Baptist Church in Barberton. Previously and for most of his life, he had been a member of the Akron Baptist Temple where he served in many roles: usher, deacon, traffic officer, Sunday school teacher for adults, and financial secretary for over 30 years. He also lovingly and meticulously created the beautiful stained glass windows that grace the church. He received great joy serving in the “Always Hope” outreach ministry where he was able to share the love and hope of Christ with those in need. Jack also used his gifts to help other churches and ministries; one of his favorite ministries being his precious “Faith Girls.”
Rest in Peace Dad…until we see you again. Thank you for the legacy that you leave behind. His Lord said unto him, Well done thou good and faithful servant; enter thou into the joy of thy Lord. Matthew 25:21