James (Jim) Lee “Pug” Cunningham passed away on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at the age of 79, after a courageous battle with ALS.
He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Judy Harris Cunningham; his children, “Zeph”aniah (Kelly) Cunningham, Heather (Matt) McGlennon, Sarah (Joe) Mullins; his grandchildren, Lillian Cunningham, Riley McGlennon, Katie (Cody) Smith, Amber Mullins; greatgrandchildren, Charlie Smith and Harper Smith (Jan. 2027); sister, Gaye (Dan) Walke; along with numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.
He was predeceased by his parents, Jack and Ruth Moore Anderson; father, Claude Cunningham Sr.; in-laws, William and Alice Harris; sister, Faye Sheffield; and brother, Claude “Shorty” Cunningham Jr.
Jim was born October 27, 1946, in Roanoke. He graduated from Jefferson High School in 1966 and then started a long 41-year career at Hub Pattern Corporation. He was a member of Waverly Place Baptist Church.
When he wasn’t spending time with family, Jim loved working on his farm, McGee Run, in Rockbridge County. He was also an avid car collector and a member of Star City Hot Rods. He volunteered with the Vinton Jaycees for over 20 years and in the Jefferson High School Memorabilia Room to help continue the legacy of the school. He loved going to his children’s and grandchildren’s sports and activities and working a good crossword or Sudoku puzzle. There was nothing he could not make, or fix, and always coming up with the next project and usually finding a way to make it happen.
The family would like to express their gratitude to Dr. Lydia Sharp with Carilion ALS Clinic and Good Samaritan for their care provided. Jim loved his family and lived his life fully. He will be deeply missed by his family, many friends, and everyone who was fortunate enough to have known him.
Visitation will be held Sunday, September 20 from 2-6 p.m. at Oakey’s Vinton Chapel. Funeral service will be held Monday, September 21, 2026, at Vinton Baptist Church at 2 p.m. with the Rev. Chris Monroe officiating. Prior to the service a second visitation will take place at the church from 1-2 p.m.
Following the service, Jim will be laid to rest in Mountain View Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory to the Vinton History Museum, Bedford Fire Department, or Vinton Baptist Church Maintenance Fund.
