Obituary for
Ruby Myrl Cunningham (Handy)
Ruby Myrl Cunningham (Handy) was 86 years old when she passed away on July 20, 2017, in the comfort of her home and with loved ones at her side.
Born in Rose, Oklahoma in the winter of 1931 to Walter and Luella “Fern” Handy, Ruby was destined to grow up quick. She was married young and immediately started a family. In her early years, she lived in Oklahoma and Texas but spent the majority of her life raising her children in Roseburg, Oregon, with her husband, Curtis Cunningham, Sr.
Eight children, 33 grandchildren, 66 great grandchildren and 23 great, great grandchildren later, “Mom,” “Gramma, Ruby,” “Ruby” had her hands full but was able to handle whatever life would throw her way. When time allowed, she loved spending time outdoors hunting and deep sea fishing and indoors cooking and caring for others.
During Ruby’s lifetime, she had many jobs. However, she was most proud of her 55-year commitment to Roseburg Forest Products. While she only stood 5’3”, Ruby wasn’t afraid of hardwork and instilled a work ethic in her family that lives on in each of them today.
She was a mother by day and a laborer by night. When home, you would find her children, grandchildren, and their friends congregating at the house. She was always quick with smile and willing to cook up something if anyone was hungry.
It was evident to anyone who knew Ruby that she had a sense of resolve that would carry her through to the end of her days. She left this world knowing she had been redeemed and with the love of family by her side.
Ruby was preceded in death by her father and mother, Walter and Luella “Fern” Handy, her brothers, Louis Elzza Handy and Curtis Earl Handy, and her eldest son, Manual “Bud” Miller. She is survived by her husband, Curtis Cunningham, Sr., seven living children: Judy Emery, Ruby Allen, Charlotte Hardin, Shelia Krohn, Lee Willis, Curt Cunningham, Frank Cunningham; 33 grandchildren, 66 great grandchildren, and 23 great, great grandchildren, and her brother, Leroy Handy.
Funeral services will be held Monday, July 31, 2017 at 11:00 AM at Wilson’s Chapel of the Roses. Those who wish may pay their respects on Monday from 9:00 AM until service time. Private interment will be within the grounds of Oak Creek Cemetery.
Please visit www.wilsonschapeloftherosesfh.com to leave the family fond memories and condolences.
