Jackie "Jack" O. Cunningham

Jackie "Jack" O. Cunningham, 89, of East Peoria passed away on Saturday, November 20, 2021 at Apostolic Christian Skylines in Peoria. He was born on October 17, 1932 in Tulsa, Oklahoma, one of 13 children to Russel Haskell and Daisy (Hines) Cunningham Sr. Jack married Leota M. Newell on May 9, 1975 in Pekin. She preceded him in death on February 4, 2019 in Peoria. He was also preceded in death by his parents; son, Jesse Cunningham; step-daughters, Deborah Vaughan and Teresa Kazense; siblings, Wilma Lovell, Russel Cunningham Jr., Harold Cunningham, Barbara Wallace, Jean Hayes, Bertha Beaver and Patsy Williams; and several brother and sister in laws. Jack is survived by his daughters, Roxy Miklethun and Raney (Larry) Nutt; step-children, Ron (Cheryl) Vaughan, Randy Vaughan and Tammi (Ron) Miller; step son-in-law Jack Kazense; siblings, Sue Rogers, Roberta Rogers, Jerry (Loretta) Cunningham, Joe Cunningham and Donnie (Teresa) Cunningham. He also leaves a legacy of 14 grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren; 7 great-great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Jack was a devoted husband to Leota, tending to her every need until she passed. We have great peace knowing that they are together again, holding hands and singing in God's choir. Besides Leota and his grandkids, Jack's greatest love was country music. He played in several bands throughout his life and spent many a Saturday night picking guitars with family while Leota sang with her sisters. As Jack's earthly body failed him, when he picked up his guitar his fingers became magically nimble as he strummed and sang songs of his past. He was a true Okie from Muskogee if there ever was one and we will all miss him. Go rest high on that mountain son, your work on earth is done. Jack was a U.S. Navy Veteran and served during the Korean War. He was a member of the American Legion post 983 of East Peoria where a celebration of his life will be held on Sunday, December 5th from 1-4pm. Cremation rites have been accorded. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Midwest Affiliate. Online condolences may be made at www.remmertfuneralhome.com