Barbara Jane Cunningham

Barbara Jane “Janie” Cunningham, born May 4, 1941, in Portland, Oregon, passed away leaving behind a life defined by devotion to family, deep friendships, and the simple joys that brought her happiness throughout the years. The daughter of Wilma N. (McGehee) and Earl L. Chadwick, Janie grew up in Portland and graduated from Wilson High School in 1959. She remained in Portland until 1972. During her early years in Portland, she also lived in Houston, Texas for part of the year between 1951 - 1962, as her Dad traveled for work. Oregon and Texas hold her memories close of childhood, school days, and the community that shaped her early life. After moving to Sherwood, Janie became an active member of Mt. Home Methodist Church, later attending Sherwood Community Friends Church and Mt. View Church of Aumsville, where she found fellowship, purpose, and lifelong friends.

Janie worked in a variety of roles that reflected her strong work ethic and her love of people. She began at Lipman’s Department Store, then joined the Portland Catering Company, where her talent and joy for food shone brightly. She later worked as a prep cook at Davidson’s Family Restaurant in Tigard, and eventually as a retail associate at Made in Oregon.

Outside of work, Janie embraced life with enthusiasm and curiosity. She loved traveling with her family, cherishing time spent with her cousins and the adventures they shared. Camping trips and beach outings were among her greatest joys especially while collecting rocks, shells, and driftwood from her travels, each piece a small treasure tied to a memory. She enjoyed cooking and gathering recipes, fishing in mountain rivers and lakes, and spending as much time as possible with her children, grandchildren, great‑grandchildren, extended family, friends and classmates who remained dear to her throughout her life.

Janie was preceded in death by her parents, Earl and Wilma, and her brothers Karl Pierce and Doug Chadwick.

She is survived by her loving children: Gregory M. Cunningham Jr., Rebecca Cunningham, Bonny Shepard, and Molly Zettlemoyer; and her nephew, Steve Pierce. She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren: Michael McGlothlin, Amanda Culora, Noah Cunningham, Erin Smallwood, Josie Smallwood, Sam Anthony, Jessica Shepard, Wyatt Zettlemoyer, and Bryanna Zettlemoyer; as well as her great‑grandchildren Kiri McGlothlin and Hudson Zettlemoyer.

Janie’s life was one of warmth, generosity, and connection. She poured her heart into her family, her friendships, and the experiences that brought her joy. Her legacy lives on in the stories shared, the memories cherished, and the love she gave so freely. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.