Arrangements are by Bean-Massey-Burge Funeral Home, 2951 S Belt Line Rd, Grand Prairie, TX 75052. Viewing and visitation will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, July 15th, 2019, followed with burial at the DFW National Cemetery at 2 p.m.
Life: Born December 24th, 1924 in Waco, TX to Walter Joe Bettinger, Sr. and Hallie Fields, she was raised by her Aunt, Ona Fields due to her mother’s passing on February 13th, 1925. The youngest of six children, Walter J. Jr., Mildred M., Virginia K., John L., and Bruce R. Bettinger, she was a graduate of Waco High School and worked as a clerk at Woolworth’s department store. On August 23rd, 1942, she married Col. O.D. Cunningham, Jr. of Hico, TX. Based upon her upbringing, she worked hard to beautify all around her, bringing happiness and joy to anyone who entered her sphere of influence through her hobby (and love of) crafts. A very devoted military spouse, she endured numerous separations and forty-one transfers during her husband’s military career, successfully raised two children, later cared for her Aunt and her mother-in-law Leighota C. Skidmore, and enjoyed a marriage that lasted 61 years until O.D.’s death on December 22nd, 2003. She was preceded in death by her parents, her Aunt, her husband, and her five siblings.
She is survived by her children Randal D. and spouse Patricia A., Ginger L. and spouse Donald T. Coleman, grandchildren Ronald D. Cunningham and spouse Veronica P., April C. Damon, and Casey D. Coleman and spouse Hailey E., six nieces and nephews, and eight great-grandchildren.
Memorial: In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations made in her name be sent to the American Lung Association, or another charity of your choice.
