He was born in Bath on May 12, 1930 the son of Walter and Lela (Horford) Cunningham.
He grew up in Georgetown and attended school there until the 5th grade when he was forced to leave the class room and entered the work force to help out his family. He worked as a clam digger, at the young age of 9, for many years.
Walter always enjoyed the ocean. In the winters, he worked for the Georgetown School Department, making sure the wood stoves were lit for the children’s day, and shoveling the walk-ways. He took pride in making sure the grounds of the school were kept clean. Walter retired at the age of 62, realizing he could not just sit around, he gained employment at the Oak Cemetery, Georgetown, where he was the sexton. Walter was the soul care giver for his mother for many years prior to her death in 2003.
He was a very caring person and would always go out of his way to help anyone. You could always find Walter having breakfast and greeting the customers every morning at the Galley Restaurant in Bath. He had made some strong friendships there. Elanor Thomas was one of them. In the last few years those two were inseparable. If you saw one of them, the other was not far behind. They had a loyal friendship like no other "Walter had a heart of gold." He lived at The Moorings for over 20 years, he considered his neighbors, his family. Things won’t be the same without him, he will be missed!
Walter is predeceased by his parents and his only son, Walter Cunningham III and his daughter-in-law Dorothy.
He is survived by his family at The Moorings, his family at the Galley and many others who have touched his heart.
At Walter’s request there will be no services. A private burial will take place at Oak Cemetery, Georgetown. To share your thoughts and condolences for Walter, please visit www.desmondfuneralhomes.com.
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