Delores “Lois” Cunningham, a beacon of love and wisdom, was born on October 15,1942 to John Ervin and Roberta Taylor, both deceased. Delores passed away peacefully on July 8, 2024, at the age of 81. She is proceeded in death by her loving husband of 44 years, Robert Cunningham. Lois was born in Cleveland, Ohio and she grew from the roots of her beloved city and attended the Cleveland public school system. Her educational journey did not just end with the basics. She furthered her skills with data entry training, which paved the way for a remarkable 30-year career at the Cuyahoga Board of Elections. Delores’ dedication to her role went beyond mere employment; it was a reflection of her commitment to civic duty and community involvement.

Beyond her professional life, Lois was a loving homemaker, whose hands were rarely still. She was an amazing seamstress, creating countless items with her patterns that brought joy and warmth to many. Lois’ creativity was matched only by her generosity, as she often gifted her beautiful creations to those she loved.

Delores loved God she dedicated her life to Christ. She held the roles as church mother and Sunday school secretary at Leviticus Sweet Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church. Delores avidly worshipped the Lord and professed the power of prayer in her life and the lives of her family and friends. She strongly encouraged everyone to go to God in prayer.

The words that best describe Lois are indeed funny, faith-filled, and wise. She had the rare ability to light up a room with her humor, uplift a soul with her unwavering faith, and guide a lost spirit with her wisdom. Her laughter was infectious, her prayers powerful, and her advice sought after by all who knew her.

She embraced each day as a precious gift, an opportunity to make a difference, to love deeply, and to serve faithfully. Today, as we bid farewell to Lois, we do so with gratitude for the time we had with her, for the laughter we shared, and for the wisdom she imparted. She was truly a light in this world, and her spirit will continue to shine brightly in the lives of those she has left behind.

Delores was the eldest of 12 siblings 4 of whom proceeded her in death. She leaves to celebrate her life and legacy, sisters Viola Ervin, Barbra Simmons (Leroy), Frankie Mae, Willa Mae Ervin, Wilehmina Ervin, and Joyce Greenwood, brother George Ervin, children Yvonne Barfield, Denise Freeman (Gerald), Sonia Barfield, Delores Dargon, Thomas Barfield (Tiffany), Norine Wilson (Vince), and Debra Messenger. She will be dearly missed by 14 grandchildren, 29 great grandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends.