Adlena M. Cunningham's Obituary
Adlena M. Cunningham, age 85, went home to be with the Lord on September 4th, 2022, in Tacoma, WA.
Adlena was a native of Dinwiddie County, VA, and was born on October 26th, 1936. Growing up on a farm, and being the oldest of 10 children, instilled the values of hard work, dedication, and gratitude into Adlenas spirit; while also cultivating her heart for the service of others, making her the woman we knew and love.
Adlena was a devoted mother to Andre Cunningham and the late Audret Wilson, grandmother to Jensen, Toccara, Ariassa, and Devin, and great-grandmother to, Cilas, Parker, Elias, and Rio.
Adlena left a peaceful impression on every person she came into contact with. She perfected the “grandma hug,” you know the one, the hug that whispered I see you, and I love you. Her warm smile and welcoming voice ensured everyone that grandma was always there for them. Adlena permeated the essence of joy, especially with her infectious laugh that could light up a room.
Since childhood, Adlena has loved traveling and seeing the world. She was captivated by learning about other cultures, stories, and traditions. She explored the world by plane, train, bus, automobile, camel, safari jeep, and boat. Adlena embraced six continents and more than 60 countries; Africa was her favorite place. She studied the world through travel blogs, travel channels, magazines, and books.
Adlena was a learner at heart. Growing up, she wanted to be a teacher. While working as a substitute teacher and raising her children, she earned her bachelor's degree from Pacific Luthern University, then went on to become a social worker.
On any given day, you could find Adlena serving others. Being a servant leader filled Adlenas heart and purpose. She served at Tacoma Christian Center, where she dedicated countless hours to back-to-school drives, being part of the Women of Virtue mission, Children's ministry, going on mission trips, Christmas present wrapping, and more. Adlena also took pride in being a Zeta Phi Beta and spending time serving with her soror sisters.
To know Adlena is to know her love for photography, videos, documentaries, history, music, and movies. Adlena had a servant's heart, a kind spirit, and a loving soul. Her legacy is one of service and commitment to others, and it is one we should all aspire to carry on.
Adlena was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Henry E. and Alfreda Hicks; her beloved daughter Audret M. Wilson. Brothers, Eulis, Clyde, and Murriell Hicks; sisters, France “Delores” Wyatt and Ruby Mae Lawence; nephews Michale Hicks and Darien Hicks; Nieces, Denise and Joy Wyatt.
Adlena is survived by her son Andre Cunningham (Kathy); grandchildren Jensen, Toccara, Devin Cunningham, and Ariassa Wilson. Great-grandchildren, Cilas, Parker, Elias, and Rio. Siblings Margaret Wyatt (Freddie), McSwennie Hicks (Diane), Bertha Hicks, and Yvonne Mahone. Nephews, Wendle Rawls (Maria), Shawn Bobb (Michelle), Darryl Bobb (Ce-Asia), Eulis (Tammy), Conrad, Paris Sr. (Maria); nieces, Tarana Hicks, Quinoa Hicks-Hiltner (Billy), Wendy Hall, Cawan Lombard, Beverly Meyers (Robert), Rika Wyatt, Finequa Mahone, Yonzhel Bolling, Dezhele Jones (Kenny); dear friends, Costella Curtis, Carolyn Vaughn & sisters, Annie Connelly, Bernice Watson, Charlene Greene, and a host of dear cousins, friends, and acquaintances who will miss her loving spirit."
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