Samuel "Dink" Eugene Cunningham

Samuel Eugene “Dink” Cunningham was born on November 22, 1945, in Lynchburg, Virginia, where he grew up alongside his five Cunningham siblings.

Dink was the beloved son of the late James Bryant Cunningham, Sr. and the late Frances Lee Sale Cunningham.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Maxine Cunningham Mays and Linda Cunningham Ragland, and his brothers, James Bryant “Jimmy” Cunningham, Jr., and Warren Wayne Cunningham.

Dink peacefully passed away on January 2, 2026, at the age of 80 with his wife, Melynda, by his side.  In addition to his wife, he is survived by his sister, Carolyn “Pug” Cunningham Wise.

Family meant everything to Dink.  He had a big personality and an even bigger heart, always willing to help anyone who needed it.  He was a husband, uncle, dad, brother, “Papa”, and friend - but always exactly the person you wanted and needed him to be.  He embraced each of these roles to be the best version of himself for the family and friends he chose to surround himself with.  His humor, warmth, and love were felt by all who knew him.

Dink dedicated over 40 years of his life to working at Campbell-Payne Building Supplies, a place that was more than just a job - it was a huge part of who he was.  His strong work ethic, loyalty, and the relationships he built there meant the world to him and many of his coworkers became lifelong friends.

Outside of work, Dink enjoyed playing golf at Winton in Amherst, Virginia, with all of his boys “The Wolf Pack”, traveling with Melynda, and eventually retiring to Briarcliffe Acres.  He truly loved living at the beach, where he continued doing what he did best - making friends with anyone, anywhere.

He was forever the life of the party but always knew when it was time to go home.  At the very end, he pulled a true Dink moment: “I’m ready. Peace!” - passing over to the next phase of life where he may find comfort, peace, and joy again.

We love you, Dink. You’ll be missed by many.

A celebration of life will be planned at a later date.

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