John M. Cunningham

John Michael Cunningham—known to most as John, and to some as "Coach"—passed away peacefully on June 30, 2025, surrounded by family at his home in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania. He navigated the 90 years of his life with steadfast integrity, tireless determination, sharp wit, quiet compassion, and enduring faith.

Born on April 24, 1935, in Philadelphia, PA, John lived a remarkable life rooted in faith, family, service, and purpose. John believed deeply in giving back. A devout Roman Catholic, he was an active member of his parish and extended his commitment to public service well beyond the church walls. He served in local politics, sat on community boards, and played a meaningful role in helping resettle immigrants sponsored by his church—offering them not just resources, but dignity and welcome. He also proudly served in the United States Army.

John built his business, JMC, Inc., from the ground up—an extraordinary achievement that spoke to his vision, discipline, and belief in doing right by others. He offered thoughtful, strategic guidance to his clients, many of whom became lifelong friends. His rock-solid calm in the face of turbulent markets and his sincere care for the people he worked for earned him deep respect and trust. His approach to business—measured, principled, and quietly confident—mirrored how he lived his life.

John's life was a testament to love and commitment. He and his beloved wife of 63 years, Patricia Keough Cunningham, created a legacy of love, reflected in the lives of their vibrant family: daughters Cathy Skelly, Kim Cunningham Marren, Christine Joyce, Karen Cunningham, Clare Ambrose, and Kelly Cunningham, and son John M. Cunningham, Jr.

He was a proud and devoted grandfather to Patrick Skelly, Grace LaBruzzo, Kathleen Skelly, Katelyn Allee, Claire Marren, Tom Joyce, Devin Joyce, Abby Nicholson, Eric Nicholson, Jack Ambrose, Matt Ambrose, Ori Cunningham, Leah Cunningham, Rose Stein, and Ruby Stein—and a delighted great-grandfather to Maisie Skelly, Brixton Joyce, and Burke LaBruzzo.

John is also survived by his siblings, Patricia McCloskey and Paul Cunningham, and was predeceased by Anne Curtis, Jim Cunningham, Winifred Benner, and Tom Cunningham.

John’s passion for life extended to both the sports he loved and the knowledge he pursued. A graduate of La Salle University and a lifelong learner, he approached everything—from tennis and golf to investing and bridge—with curiosity, discipline, and drive. Whether on the field as “Coach,” on the golf course with a club, or at the card table, John was in his element—competitive, gracious, and always quick to laugh. His presence was steady, his sportsmanship a quiet lesson in grace. He didn’t just play—he studied and strove to master whatever he set his mind to, leading by example with humility, patience, and purpose. For John, learning wasn’t a task—it was a way of life.

As we bid farewell to John Cunningham, let us not dwell on the void left in his absence but rather embrace the countless memories he has gifted us. His was a life not merely lived but lived well and with purpose. He taught those around him to live with intention, to stay grounded in their values, and to meet life’s highs and lows with resilience and grace. He challenged us to pursue our dreams with courage, to laugh often and love deeply, and to hold fast to our faith through every twist and turn.

John's legacy is one that will continue to motivate and uplift, a reminder that a life well-lived is the most profound statement one can make. Let us honor him by living as he did—with passion, with kindness, and with a heart full of love. Though his story has reached its final chapter, the lessons he imparted and the love he shared will endure—woven into the lives of those he leaves behind.

A funeral Mass will be held at Saints Peter and Paul Parish, 1325 Boot Road, West Chester, PA  19380 on Thursday, July 10 at 11:00 AM, with the family receiving guests beginning at 10:00 AM. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to La Salle Academy, a cause close to Pat and John’s hearts. Those donations can be made via check (mailed to La Salle Academy, 1434 North 2nd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19122) or online at https://lasalleacademy.net/.