Ella Mae Cunningham

Ella Mae knew at an early age that she had the gift of helping others. She cared for people who were physically and emotionally challenged. Ella obtained an Associates of Science Degree in Nursing in 1973. She later obtained a Master of Science in Nursing with a Certificate as a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Mental Health. She worked at several local hospitals, just to name a few: Foster Home Healthcare as a Case Manager; Evergreen Crossing/The Lofts as a RN Staff Nurse; and West Healthcare Rehab as a RN Staff Nurse. Ella was very well known and respected in the Indianapolis Healthcare Community. Ella Mae was honored and humbled when asked if she would speak to an organization regarding mental health.

At an early age Ella Mae Cunningham professed her life to Christ. She was an active member of Christian Faith Baptist Church where she served in many capacities such as President of the Usher Board, Pastors Aid, Scholarship Fund Committee and a Sunday School Teacher.

Ella was an advocate for community service as she was active in several civic and social groups. She was a member of the following organizations: Chi Eta Phi Sorority, Urban League, and The National Council of Negro Women, Indianapolis Section.

Ella garnered multiple awards and honors for her endless energy, just to name a few, she received Superior Nurse Award; Inducted in Who’s Who in Nursing America and several accolades of certification as a Clinical Nurse Specialist.

In the midst of Ella’s spare time, she loved to read, sew, travel and go shopping. Ella was a “fashionista” before that was even a word. Ella Mae was a very stylish lady, with closets and closets and more closets of nice clothes, shoes, purses and hats. She loved to dress up and even on her “not so good days” she would still be dressed to the nines.

Ella enjoyed spending time with her family. She helped care for her nephew, Tyree Harper and was well-woven into the fabric of her family throughout all of its generations. She kept up with all births and loved sharing her family history. While Ella Mae loved all of her family, it was no secret that the apple of her eye was her great niece, Tyreeonna Harper. They spent endless hours together, either in person or on the telephone.

Ella touched the lives of so many people throughout her caretaking, concern and service to others. Her soul was kind, and she had a pure heart. Ella walked gracefully and the presence of God was always with her. She made an everlasting imprint on everyone she met. She always had an open ear and sage advice that buoyed you through a storm. Her light and influence will continue to burn brightly in the lives of those she touched.

Ella Mae Cunningham departed this life on Thursday, October 20, 2022, at the age of 88 with loved ones by her side. She was preceded in death by her late parents, her son Rodney, a nephew, Mark “Tony” Duncan, three sisters, Pearl Carter, Ruth Juanita Carter and Constance Carter Morris and one brother, James Carter.

Ella leaves to cherish precious memories to sisters, Vesa (Correll) Parson, Luraline Anderson, and Geraldine Hansbrough, and a host of nieces, nephews, church family and friends.