Russell Alden Cunningham, a man who found great peace beneath a forest canopy and deep joy in the company of those he loved, began his final walk on January 18, 2026, at HCA NFL Gainesville, FL, following a sudden illness. He was 72. Born to the late Louis and Wilma Miner Cunningham, Russell's youth and heart were shaped by the rugged beauty of the Midwest, in Oklahoma and Colorado. His life's work was rooted in Lake City, Florida, where he lived for the past fifty years. For most of his career, he ran the printing presses with steady dedication at Florida Gateway College, but his true place was outdoors.

While he was previously a member of the Elks and Lions Clubs, Russell's proudest titles were Husband, Dad, Brother, and Papa (Grandpa). He spent twenty-one wonderful years building a life with his wife Brenda, and took pride in watching his children and grandchildren grow. Whether he was navigating a quiet nature trail, casting a line into still waters, or observing reptiles with the herpetology club, Russell moved through the world with respect for all creatures, great and small. He was a man of quiet strength and endless curiosity.

Beyond his love for the wild, Russell's greatest accomplishment was the family he nurtured. He was a devoted husband to Brenda and a steady hand for his children, Eric, Laura, and stepson John, and a caring brother to Cam and Mimi. To his grandchildren, Silver, Alden, and Cora, he was a guide who taught them to look closer at the world and love it more deeply.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Brenda Cunningham; his children, Eric Russell Cunningham and Laura Mari Zubko (Andy); his stepson, John Livingston (Heather); his brother, Cameron Cunningham (Jo); and his sister, Meredith "Mimi" Johnson (Jay). Russell's life was a reminder to slow down, enjoy the quiet of nature, and hold your family close. He will be deeply missed.

A memorial service for Mr. Russell Alden Cunningham will be conducted on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at 3:00 PM at the Gateway-Forest Lawn Funeral Home Chapel, with Pastor Lonnie Johns officiating. Friends and family are warmly invited to attend the service.  Arrangements are under the direction of GATEWAY-FOREST LAWN FUNERAL HOME, 3596 S US Hwy 441, Lake City, FL 32025. Please leave words of comfort for the family at www.gatewayforestlawn.com.