Dorothy Ola Cunningham

Dorothy Ola Cunningham (née Popp), of Chesterfield, MO, passed away Thursday, June 19, 2025, at the age of 91. Devoted daughter of the late Albert J. and Mabel Popp; cherished mother of Jeannine (Michael) Fountain, Steven (Sheryl) Hauk, Warren (Vasko) Hauk; loving grandmother of Michelle Hauk, Mathew (Tatiana) Hauk, Laura (Chris) Hom, Benjamin Hauk, Emma Fountain, Andrew Hauk; treasured great-grandmother of Brandon Hauk, Ayanna Hauk, William Hauk, Alexander Hauk; dear sister of Mary (Larry) Beaver, Conrad (Pam) Popp, and Alberta (JD) Bittel; preceded in death by her first husband, Andrew Hauk, and second husband, William Cunningham, and her three brothers, Lorrel (the late Ruth) Popp, David (the late Lynn) Popp, James (Barbara, survives) Popp.

Dorothy was a dedicated nurse who spent much of her career in psychiatric care, where her strength, brave, and calm demeanor under pressure made her a steady presence for those in need. A true artist at heart, she was an exceptional seamstress who loved sewing, crafting, embroidery, and quilting—turning fabric and thread into works of art with meticulous precision, always making everything she touched beautiful and special.

A perfectionist in the best sense, Dorothy also enjoyed cake decorating and baking, and made the most delicious and beautiful cookies. Witty and playful, she proudly introduced herself as “Dorothy from Kansas” and often sported red shoes to complete the part.

She was a gifted reader of stories to her children and grandchildren, bringing Princess Furball and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory to life when reading aloud, and she deeply appreciated the arts, regularly attending plays at the Repertory Theatre of St. Louis and enjoying symphonies. Dorothy was also a faithful member and deacon at Kirkwood Baptist Church. In her free time, she loved walking in Queeny Park and shopping at the St. Louis Galleria Mall. Dorothy was dearly loved and will be profoundly missed by all who knew her.

Memorials may be made in Dorothy's name to Missouri Botanical Gardens and Friendship International.