Karen Cunningham

An amazing mother, Karen had one child, Jessica, but lovingly embraced many “bonus kids,” offering them the same care, guidance, and unconditional love. Karen treated everyone like family, welcoming friends, coworkers, doctors, nurses and strangers alike with warmth and compassion. Her kindness left a lasting impression on all who were fortunate enough to know her.

She proudly worked for over 30 years at Fort Monmouth with the Department of Defense, earning multiple accolades for her dedication, service, and work performance.

A woman of strong faith, Karen was a devoted parishioner of Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in Lakewood, NJ.

She is survived by her loving partner, Jeremiah Sipili; her daughter, Jessica Sipili-Sanford, and son-in-law Jimmy Sanford; her brothers, Peter Cunningham (wife Tina) and Anthony Freda (significant other Clarita Villa); her sister, Patricia Sredniawa (husband Myron) and her stepmother, Margaret Cunningham as well as many extended family members, friends, and her four fur babies; Cali, Pua, Kono, and Nani.

She is predeceased by her mother Doris Freda; father, Peter Cunningham; stepfather, Carmine Freda; maternal grandparents, Clarence and Helen Duke; and paternal grandparents, John and Marie Cunningham.

Her viewing will be held at D’Elia Funeral Home in Lakewood, NJ on January 13, 2026 from 4pm-8pm. Her funeral mass will be on January 14, 2026 at 10:30am at St. Mary of the Lake in Lakewood followed by a procession to St. Gabriel’s Cemetery and Mausoleums in Marlboro, NJ.

Flowers may be sent to D’Elia Funeral Home in Lakewood, NJ. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to one of Karen’s favorite foundations; St. Jude Research Hospital, Donate Life America, ASPCA, or Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue.