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Gordon "Russ" Russell Cunningham, Jr.

Passed 7/20/2026

Text:

Obituary For Gordon "Russ" Russell Cunningham, Jr.

Virginia Beach, VA - Gordon Russell Cunningham, Jr., (Russ) passed away peacefully on July 20, 2026. A devoted husband, proud father, loving brother, and lifelong educator, Russ was always the champion of the underdog and willing to lend a hand to anyone in need.

Despite a long battle with cancer, Russ lived life to its fullest with adventures that left his friends and family with stories to tell and plenty of reasons to smile. He spent many years teaching special education where his patience, positive spirit and dedication to his students made a lasting impression. Russ loved the human interaction of teaching but was not a fan of the mounds of paperwork that took him away from from with his students.

Russ was passionate about his sports, especially volleyball. Whether he was playing, coaching, organizing tournaments, or catching up with friends between matches, volleyball became an extension of his own family, creating lifelong friendships that meant the world to him.

Russ will be deeply missed by his family, friends, former students, teammates, and everyone fortunate enough to know him. While our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in remembering a life well lived and feel blessed to have had such a special person in our lives.

In true Russ fashion, we’d rather remember him with stories of his adventures, laughter, and shared memories thus a celebration of life will be held on a future date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Russ’ name to the organization of your choice supporting employment and/or growth of those with special needs such as Sugar Plum Bakery, Eggleston Services, Special Olympics or simply remember Russ when performing an act of kindness for someone in need.

Simply Cremation is assisting the family during this difficult period. Friends and family are invited to share memories and express their condolences at SimplyCremationOnline.com.

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Tributes

  • 10 TREES

    Ian Band planted 10 trees in memory of Gordon "Russ" Russell Cunningham, Jr. . - 07/30/2026

Condolences

  • 07/29/2026

    Karyn Simonelli

    I worked with Russ at Landstown High School. For one year, he was a special education teacher in my English classroom. He ran fabulous vocabulary lessons each day. He was always prepared and enthusiastic. His height was a great gift to me, and I still have things hanging from the ceiling in my classroom that he installed for me. I will remember him daily as I look at and appreciate the things that he did for me and the students in our classroom. He was an amazing teacher and a calm and secure presence for the students. My condolences to Russ's family. He was an outstanding man. Peace and love from Karyn Simonelli

  • 07/29/2026

    Frank McKenna

    Sue and family. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. From the early days at Fitness First with other family members through our education careers, Russ was always a go9d friend and great guy. We had the opportunity to work together at a couple different schools and I can totally agree, he loved actual teaching, he was no fan of the paperwork involved in education. Each year Russ was sought out as an Inclusion partner because he loved teaching students. I'm so sorry for your loss and I pray for all of his family. May God's peace be with you. Frank McKenna

  • 07/29/2026

    Bryan and Jill

    Dear Sue and Family, I was very saddened to hear about Russ's passing. Please accept my heartfelt sympathy during this incredibly difficult time. Even though I knew Russ mainly as a friendly rival on the volleyball courts, his presence always stood out having that combination of competitive spirit and friendship that made every match feel special. Jill and I are holding you guys in our thoughts and please let us know if we can help in any way. Bryan and Jill Seale

  • 07/24/2026

    Bob & Debbie Leedom

    Russ was a great friend and an even better person. He lit up a room with his outgoing personality. Too many stories to share...Crabtree Falls camping, doubles partners on the beach, decades of traveling playing volleyball with lifelong friends, Senior Nationals, the Digs and Halloween parties. Russ was genuine and a friend to all he met. A remarkable man! God's comfort & blessing on Sue and the family!

  • 07/23/2026

    Dorothy Young

    I worked with Russ at Bayside High School for many years. I remember him as a true gentleman. I am so sorry for your loss. I will keep your family in my prayers.

  • 07/22/2026

    Janine Lackey

    My heart goes out to you all. I am so sorry for your loss. Sending you all love and hugs. Janine Lackey

  • 07/22/2026

    Barbara York

    Sue and Family, Although i never had the opportunity to meet Russ, I'm certain he was a shining light to so many and will be missed dearly. May you find comfort in knowing that others care. Barb York

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