Roy Albert Cunningham

Roy Albert Cunningham, 85, Nevada, passed from this life on Sunday, March 29, 2026, at Village Shalom in Overland Park, KS. Roy was born July 17, 1940, in Dederick, MO, to Herbert H. and Dorothy B. (Strode) Cunningham. On March 9, 1968, Roy married Denzail Grace Peterson and she preceded him in death on Sept. 14, 2022.

Roy spent most of his life in Vernon County and graduated from Schell City High School. Roy’s life was firmly rooted in agriculture. He was owner of Sheldon Seed Company for over 40 years, the past President of Missouri Seedman’s Association, as well as raising cattle throughout his life. Roy enjoyed fishing and hunting, playing cards, especially Bridge, Pitch and Dominos. A former standout athlete in baseball, football and basketball, following high school Roy attended the University of Missouri to play football for Head Coach, Dan Devine.

Survivors include three children, Melissa Hinck (James), Sarasota, FL, Roylene Cunningham, Seattle, WA, and Mary Beth Claypool (Brandon), Overland Park, KS; six grandchildren, Jason Cunningham (Leslie), Andrew Hinck, Nicholas Hinck (Sydney), Angela Hinck, Garrett Claypool, and Emma Claypool; great grandchildren, Dalton Cunningham, Mila Hinck, and Hadley Hinck; sister, Mary Borgman, Wellington, MO, and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his wife Denzail, he was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Greg Cunningham; sister, Martha Ann Sanford, and a brother, Jim Cunningham.

Please join us from 5-7 p.m. April 13, at the Nevada Community Center for a Celebration of Life for Roy. Wear your favorite sports team apparel and enjoy Roy’s favorite stadium food. Loved ones will share tributes at 5:45 p.m.

Memorials are suggested in his name to Nevada All Sports Booster Club c/o Ferry Funeral Home in Nevada.