Shirley Beatrice Cunningham

Shirley B. Cunningham was a beacon of optimism and a source of unwavering guidance to all who knew her. She born in Thompson Station, TN on October 18, 1940. She transitioned in Nashville, TN on April 11, 2025 surrounded by loving family at her bedside. Her deep and abiding faith in God was the wellspring of her joyful spirit, coloring every aspect of her life and radiating outwards to her community. She is preceded in death by her father Rubin Nevils; mother Tommie C Waggoner; sister Bessie Geraldine Waggoner Odunaike; brothers James Carlton Waggoner and Ralph Waggoner.

Shirley graduated high school from Dwight Morrow High School (1959), received a Bachelor’s of Arts from University of Massachusetts (1974), Master of Arts from Adelphi University (1979). Shirley was raised in a strong Christian family and continued to build on those Christian values throughout her life.

For many, Shirley was like a surrogate mother, warmly embracing the roles of Cub Scout den mother and “ElCapitan mother” with boundless care and support. Her enthusiasm extended to her beloved Pittsburgh Steelers, for whom she was a devoted and spirited fan.

Her faith found active expression through her dedicated service at Cowan Street Missionary Baptist Church. She was a faithful member of the Usher Board and the Mother Board, and for many years, she served as the Chairman of annual “Parade of States” fundraiser. Her commitment to spiritual growth was evident in her weekly attendance at Bible study.

Professionally, Shirley dedicated over ten years to shaping young minds as a teacher. Later in her career, she served with commitment and retired from the Metropolitan Health Department.

Nana and Bird, as she was affectionately called, possessed a remarkable gift for imparting wisdom, always equipping her loved ones with the tools and perspective needed to navigate life’s journey with confidence. She had a passion for life’s simple pleasures, finding joy in the thrill of a tennis match, the adventure of travel, and the camaraderie of her bowling league.

Her thoughtfulness shone brightly in the annual birthday cards she sent that made you feel truly cherished and remembered. Shirley was also a gifted storyteller, her endless tales of life experience offering valuable lessons and insight to those fortunate enough to listen.

Shirley leaves to cherish her memory three sons Stanley J. (Cathey) Cunningham, John X (Deidre) Cunningham and Christopher C. Cunningham all of Nashville, TN; aunt, Mary Carolyn Miller of St. Helena Island, SC; sisters, H. Faye Waggoner of Nashville, TN, Denita Rena Waggoner of Brooklyn, NY; brothers, Luke Waggoner, III of Queens, NC, Luther Wayne Waggoner of Bronx, NY, Dale Waggoner, Neuchon Waggoner both of Nashville, TN; 8 grandchildren; a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, friends, church family and all who were touched by her loving presence, unwavering faith, and dedicated service to her family and community.