Joyce Ann Cunningham, age 87, was peacefully ushered into heaven on Friday, June 16, 2017 at her home surrounded by family and friends following brain cancer surgery. She was born April 29, 1930, in Chicago, IL to Kenneth and Florence (Corboy) Parker, and was the oldest of three children.

She married the love of her life, Hank Cunningham, May 28, 1952 in Chicago, IL, Hank preceded her to heaven in 2000. She worked as a bookkeeper in Chicago for many years. After retiring, Joyce and Hank moved from the city to Carlinville, IL. Joyce’s vocal talents were utilized for ministry, as the female voice behind the Empire Carpet commercial jingle recorded in 1977 in Chicago. She, her mother and sister were also part of the Sweet and Lows Barbershop Quartet which won the International Barbershop Championship in 1958 in Peoria, IL.

Joyce truly lived life and served Jesus to the fullest. An ardent prayer warrior, she was part of the Macoupin County Cry Out America day of prayer each September 11th from the inception in 2008 then served as Coordinator 2010 through 2016. Joyce was also active in Capitol Hill Prayer Partners, praying for national and international issues from 2005 to present day. With a great sense of humor Joyce hosted the Tuesday Night Girls Bible Study in her home from 1996 to 2007. A faithful member of Carlinville First Assembly of God, Joyce helped wherever she was needed, including Mission events. Before each Sunday morning service she could be found in the church prayer room faithfully interceding. Before her illness, Joyce had been calling and visiting shut-ins with weekly stops at the local nursing homes where she prayed.

She loved people and was always ready to help friends and family. One of her great joys was spending time with her brother, nephews and nieces. Joyce had an uncanny ability to reach people in a deep and positive way.

Left to honor Joyce and remember her love are her brother, Dean (wife Diane) Parker of Chicago, IL; nieces and nephews, Laura (Jeff) Berger of Scottsdale, AZ, Doug (Pam) Howard of Phoenix, AZ, Susan (Jerzy) Goraj of Phoenix, AZ, Bryan (Eve) Parker of Montgomery, IL, Michael (Bobette) Parker of Golden Valley, MN, and Brad (Kim) Parker of Ham Lake, MN.

Also preceding her in death are her parents and sister, Delores. She will be remembered as a bright, shining light in the various communities and churches she served.

Family, friends, and others whose lives Joyce touched are invited to a memorial service that will be held on Saturday, June 24, 2017 at 11am at Carlinville First with Rev. Steve Schmidt officiating with a private family burial at Prairie Lawn Cemetery.

Memorials may go to Carlinville First, 18772 Rt. 4, Carlinville, IL 62626.

Affiliations

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  First Assembly of God