03/31/2026
There are no words to describe the legacy of Mr. Jim Cunningham! Thank you for everything you did not only for all Franklin Countians not just athletes and coaches. Thank you for being a role model to so many with the way you lived your life. Well done good and faith servant!
James “Jim” Frank Cunningham Jr., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, went to be with the Lord on March 28, 2026, at the age of 91.
Born on June 21, 1934 in Wi******er, Tennessee, Jim lived a life grounded in faith, integrity, and love for his family. A man of deep Christian belief, he carried his love for the Lord into every aspect of his life and was a steady source of strength, kindness, and encouragement to those around him.
A proud graduate of Vanderbilt University, Jim was a standout football player and served as co-captain of the 1955 Gator Bowl team where he was an Academic All-American. Following his time as a student-athlete, he remained at Vanderbilt, spending six years coaching football and mentoring young men both on and off the field. Subsequently, Jim returned to his hometown of Wi******er, Tennessee where he built and grew a successful insurance business, becoming a trusted figure in his community through both his work and his character.
He shared an extraordinary 70-year love story with his beloved wife, Pat, who was truly the love of his life. They found great joy in family, church, community and his lifelong love of sports, especially his cherished Vanderbilt Commodores.
Jim was actively involved in his community throughout his lifetime, serving as past president of the Insurors of Tennessee, a founding board member of Consumers Insurance, a longstanding member of the Wi******er Rotary Club, and was instrumental in starting the Franklin County FCA program. He also served as choir director at his church, sharing his love of music and worship with generations of congregants.
Jim is survived by his loving wife, Pat; his children Kathy, Amanda (Bob), and Jamie (Gina); his grandchildren Justin (Grace), Colton (Kelli), and Alexandra; and great-grandchildren Kyndall, EllieMae, Rylin, EmmyLou, and Deacon Cunningham.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at Wi******er Cumberland Presbyterian Church from 12:00 PM until 2:00 PM with a Celebration of Life following at 2:00 PM Interment will immediately follow in Wi******er Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Wi******er Cumberland Presbyterian Church or the Franklin County Fellowship of Christian Athletes.
