Patti Cunningham
Blessed by the grace of our Savior, Patrica Ann Cunningham journeyed home to heaven, Saturday, February 1, 2025.
Born to the loving parents of Jayne and Donald Buckley on October 9, 1942, Patti entered this world as a cherished blessing under God’s watchful care.
Patti was benevolent, always offering grace, compassion, kindness, and love to everyone she encountered. Her sharp sense of humor and warm, infectious laughter endeared her to many, adding a memorable and uplifting dimension to her presence. From her early years as a cheerleader, to her roles as Park Lane jewelry sales representative (southern California), business owner, community activist, hostess (House of Flavors Restaurant and Scotty’s Restaurant of Ludington) and more, she illuminated every space she entered.
After falling in love with her soulmate in the late 60s, Patti married the love of her life Billie Cuningham on July 17, 1971. Together they built a beautiful life in southern California, raising their amazing children in a loving home. Later they moved to Michigan where their deep love and devotion to one another continued until Billie’s passing in March 2018. Their story is a testament to a long and happy life together.
Patti was truly a child of God, her spirit shining with a gentle light that touched everyone around her. She carried grace and faith in her heart, living each day with kindness, humility, and unwavering love. Her life was a beautiful reflection of divine goodness, inspiring others to believe in the power of compassion and hope. Patti’s presence was like a warm embrace from above, reminding us all that God’s love is always near.
Her life was enriched by her love for beagles; she owned many over the years, each cherished. But her current companion, Harley, held a special place in her heart. Since fall of 2018, they’ve been inseparable, sharing countless moments of quiet contentment snuggled together in their sunroom. Harley was more than a dog, he was Patti’s faithful companion, who filled her days with joy and unconditional love.
When Patti arrived in Ludington, she established the first bed and breakfast, the Ludington House. She took immense pride in her significant role in the town’s early development, frequently hosting events such as murder mystery dinners and exclusive tea parties. Her enduring legacy is evident in Ludington’s thriving tourism industry, a reflection of her entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to the town.
Patti’s remarkable life included being named Businesswoman of the Year, being featured in prominent travel magazines, serving on the Ludington Chamber of Commerce, and representing Ludington as an ambassador. Known as the Story Lady, she delighted children by dressing up in costumes and reading stories to them. Her extensive travel, both for her job at Princess House, and independently, fostered deep and lasting connections, including with the Guzman family in Puerto Vallarta, whom she later considered family.
Patti will be greatly missed by her children, Kathleen Burkett, and Keith (Josie) Cunningham; her beloved grandchildren, Kyle Burkett, Ian Burkett and Nathan Schackelford; her siblings, Mike Buckley, Mary, and Judy Miller; The “granddaughter of her heart”, Abbygail Rodriguez; and many beloved friends who thought of Patti as a mother, Devin Bogner, Melissa Young, Jamie Cruz, Trina Galleta-Rufo, Maria Bessem, Cynthia Magaña, and Chelsea Verbom.
She is also survived by many beloved nieces and nephews and friends who saw Patti as a wonderful grandmother and aunt.
Patti had an amazing support team that consisted of Joni Darling, Camille Kneble, Wanda Ryan, Jac and Mary Russell, Barry and Cindy Neal, Ralph and Sharon Patterson, Stephanie Oden, Pastor Hendrick and Dawn Lidman and all the family at Prayer and Praise Assembly of God. In addition to her parents, Patti was preceded in death by her husband, Billie Cunningham; son-in-law, Ian Burkett; siblings, Donna Morman, and Robert Buckley; nephew, Parish Buckley; and uncle, Art Fuller.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Prayer and Praise Church, 509 N. Staffon St., in Ludington.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Oak Grove Funeral Home of Ludington, www.OakGroveLudington.com.
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