James Lee Cunningham, affectionately known as “Jelly Bean”, of South Pittsburg, Tennessee, was called home to be with Lord on Monday, April 12, 2021, at the age of 90 years old. He was born on October 10, 1930 to Malinda Cunningham Hutchins in South Pittsburg. He joined the U.S. Army in 1950 and fought in the Korean War. After 25 years of service in the Army, he then worked as a laborer with TVA for 16 years. He was a member of Mt. Bethlehem Baptist Church for many years and a faithful member of the Senior Choir. Fishing was one of his greatest passions. He also had a great fondness for dogs (man’s best friend), having owned several.

James Lee was preceded in death by his wife of 59 years, Juanita Mobley Cunningham; brother, Charles Thomas Cunningham; mother, Malinda Cunningham Hutchins; uncle, Floyd Cunningham; and grandmother, Ethel Cunningham.

He leaves to cherish his memory, son, Gregory Mobley; daughter, Paula (David) Joyner, all of South Pittsburg; granddaughter, Courtney LaPrade, of Smyrna Georgia; special niece, Debra Sanders, of Chattanooga; a host of other nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Public viewing will be held 9:00 AM-1:00 PM, Friday, April 23, 2021, at the funeral home chapel, followed by a 1:30 PM graveside service at Chattanooga National Cemetery.

Arrangements by John P. Franklin Funeral Home, 1101 Dodds Avenue, 423-622-9995.