John W. Cunningham

Nov. 15, 1937-Jan. 28, 2026

John W. Cunningham of Linden passed away peacefully at home on January 28, 2026, at the age of 88, surrounded by the place and family he loved.

John lived a life rooted in devotion—to his family, his work, and the simple joys of building, fixing, and caring for the world around him. He proudly served his country in the United States Army at Fort Hood as a tank mechanic, a role that reflected his lifelong talent for working with his hands. He went on to spend 44 years at Eli Lilly, providing steadily for his family and modeling the values of dedication and perseverance.

A natural maker and problem-solver, John could often be found making clocks, working on projects, or sharing stories while bowling. He found peace outdoors—boating, fishing, and tending to the spruce trees on his property, which he cared for with the same patience and pride he gave to his family.

Born on November 15, 1937, in Odell, Indiana, John was the son of John L. Cunningham and Martha E. Ray Cunningham. He graduated from Jefferson High School and later took horticulture classes at Purdue University, nurturing a lifelong love of plants and the land. On September 21, 1957, he married the love of his life, Madonna Aper Cunningham. Their marriage was the foundation of a family that meant everything to him. Madonna preceded him in death on July 5, 2000.

John is survived by his son, Thomas Cunningham; his daughters, Sobra Cunningham and Marcia Stratton (Cameron); nine grandchildren: Sobra Cline, Thomas Cunningham Jr. (Christina), Nicole Ratcliff (Adam), Athena Gross (Josh), Macon Wright, Aundrea Pharris (Michael), Merissa Washam, Jasmine Rowe (Charles), and Logan Wilson. He was deeply proud to be "Papaw" to his great-grandchildren: Brandon Cunningham, Meleigha Thomas, Aiden Gross, Owen Cunningham, Landon Washam, Layne Ratcliff, Leslie Cunningham, Emma Ratcliff, Zuri Wright, Kane Rowe, Anders Pharris, Alister Rowe, Natalie Scudder, and Arlo Pharris.

His siblings Martha (deceased), Doris (deceased), Mary, James, Patricia (deceased), Norman, Norma (deceased), Ronald, and Barbara Cunningham were very special to him.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Madonna Cunningham; a son, John Cunningham Jr.; and a daughter, Diana Cunningham. John will be remembered for his quiet strength, steady presence, and deep love for his family. His legacy lives on in the generations he cherished and the countless things he built, fixed, and cared for throughout his life.

Visitation will be from 3 to 6 PM Friday, Feb. 6th at Burkhart Funeral Home, Crawfordsville. Services with military rites will be at 11 AM on Saturday, Feb. 7th at the funeral home.  After the service, he will be laid to rest at Linden Cemetery.