William James Cunningham was born February 28, 1924 to the late James Cunningham and Margurita Brown.

After graduation William enlisted in the United Sates Navy.

In 1943, he married Colista (Celeste) Lofton and together they relocated to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. To this union two children were born, a son and a daughter.

On August 24, 1971, William was united in holy matrimony to Willie Mae Davis. To this union one son was born.

Fondly known to family and friends as Willie J. Bill or Cunningham, William was employed by Reading Rail Road/Conrail-Amtrak and retired after thirty years of gainful employment.

In 1983, he decided to return to his place of birth, Newton, Georgia, and re-established his residency. He joined First Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist Church where he taught Sunday School.

He enjoyed gardening, remodeling, reading his bible and for 21 years he enjoyed the companionship of his dog (Ms. Pee Wee).

Those who knew him understood his relentless love, loyalty and commitment to his family and friends.

Survivors include his children, William J. II, Beverly Ann, Naima (Dick), Gilbert, Bernetta, William, Vinmar; his daughters-in-law, Toni and Marilyn; sons-in-law, Willie J. and Ronald; grandchildren, Kellie, Tanya, Kristen, William III, Bernetta, Eardie, Christopher, Ebony, Sarena, Stanford, Shawn, Denise, Vinmar, Jr., and eleven great grandchildren; sister, Mary Ann; sisters-in-law, Louise, Shirley, Patricia, Margie.