John Riley Cunningham, 97, of Etowah, TN, passed away Saturday, April 19, 2025, peacefully at Terra Bella Assisted Living in Athens, TN.

He was a member of St. Paul's United Methodist Church in Etowah. He was a veteran of the Korean conflict in the early 1950's and retired from AT&T over 30 years ago as an installer repairer. He was most pleased to be known as Mr. Telephone Man and as the man who changed the lights on the football field at Central High School for many years.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lloyd (Shorty) and Anna Mara Brickell Cunningham; his wives, Joyce Wilson Cunningham and Wilma Kirkland Cunningham; sisters, Susie Tadlock and Joyce Ann Stancoff.

Survivors include his daughter, Ellen and Lucky Ratledge; stepson, Ron and Becky Demetropolis; granddaughter, Kristine and James Boggess; grandson, Joseph and Candice Ratledge; great-granddaughters, Kaylee Boggess and Justin Daniel, Annabel Ratledge, and Harper Ratledge; and great-grandson, Hiram Ratledge; great-great- grandson, Coast Daniel; sister, Martha Jo Crabtree; and several nieces and nephews.

We wish to thank everyone at Etowah Health Care, Terra Bella of Athens, and Hospice of Chattanooga.

There is no formal visitation per his request. The family will assemble at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, April 23rd at Green Hill Cemetery for a short service with his grandson, the Rev. Dr. Joseph Ratledge officiating.

In lieu of flowers, please contribute to the religious organization or charity of your choice.