Barbara Jean Berry Cunningham

Barbara Jean Berry Cunningham died peacefully on September 16, 2017 at the age of 77. Born in Harrodsburg, Kentucky, and raised from the age of 9 in South Gate, California, Barbara was a graduate of UCLA with a double major and double minor. She married Gary Allen Cunningham in September of 1962, then spent the next two years in the Philippines teaching at the American School.

Throughout her life, Barbara worked in elementary education as a teacher and school district consultant. She also volunteered at charity organizations, was a member of numerous auxiliary organizations, held leadership roles in her church and always involved herself in her children’s activities. She was a lifelong learner, earning her master’s degree and pursuing doctoral studies later in her life. She traveled extensively and her willingness to help others kept her schedule full.

Barbara was known for her generous spirit, love of God and dedication to family. She was passionate, strong and vivacious. A devoted wife and mother, she found joy in her children and grandchildren, and loved spending time with family.

Barbara is survived by her husband Gary Cunningham; her daughter and son-in-law Stacy and Donald Miller; her daughter and son-in-law Erin and Jason Williams; and four grandchildren, Abigail Miller and Aidan, Noah and Kiernan Williams.

A memorial service celebrating Barbara’s life will be held on October 14, 2017 at 2:00 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church of Santa Barbara, 21 E. Constance, Santa Barbara, Calif., 93105. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Operation Christmas Child through Samaritan’s Purse or Santa Barbara Cottage Rehabilitation Hospital.