Anthony ""TJ"" Cunningham Jr.

Parent's Names: Anthony Cunningham (Pre-Deceased), Cheryl Ferguson Gilbert, Rondy V. Johnson (Step-Father)
Spouse Name: Kristi Cunningham
Children's Names: Tiana Cunningham, Gabriella Cunningham, Trinity Cunningham, Kamari Cunningham, Kadence Cunningham
Brothers/Sisters: Zana (Jerry) Johnson, Veronica (Daniel) Zacharias, Andre Cunningham, Tatrice Cunningham, Tyrese McClinton EL
Nephew: Chantz J. Johnson, Andre Cunningham Jr.
Nieces: Deja Cunningham, Egypy Cunningham, Zeniyah Ollie
Childhood bestfriend: Keith Ladson
Survived by a host
Education: Bachelors: Communications, Masters of Arts in Teaching: Special Education, Masters of Education in Administration and Supervision.
Employment: Hinkley High School, Assistant Principal
Date, time and location of service: Heritage Christian Center 14401 E. Exposition Ave., Aurora, CO 80015. Monday February 25th at 1 PM.
Anthony Cunningham Jr, age 46, passed away on Monday, February 18, 2019. Affectionately known as “TJ” was born to his parents Cheryl Ferguson-Gilbert and Anthony Cunningham Sr. on October 24, 1972 in Chicago, IL but lived most of his life in the great state of Colorado. TJ, a prominent Overland High School football star was recruited to the University of Colorado where he was a 4-year letterman. He was a 2-time CU Academic Starter, a First Team Big 8, and an honorable mention All-American. He remains the only Buff with 20 or more receptions and 75 tackles. He was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks. TJ's strength of character created lasting friendships on the field and off.

After receiving his Masters of Art in Teaching, TJ dedicated himself to the educational profession, ultimately ending up at Hinkley High School as a Dean and later an Assistant Principal. Known for his passionate advocacy for special education, TJ sought to empower all Thunderbirds with the philosophy of ""Knowledge is Power"" and the confidence to know that ""You are the most important person in your world."" TJ was a perpetual source of encouragement for staff and student alike, pushing all to strive for greatness because they deserved nothing less. TJ designed and created the Exceptional Student Service Model (ESS) at Hinkley, later adopted by all of Aurora Public Schools.

TJ loved working out, riding bikes, playing chess and shooting pool. In the past few years, he had really developed a knack for fixing his own vehicles. Most of all, TJ loved to be at home with his wife and five daughters. He coached football, track and unified basketball. TJ's family and friends were the most important things in his life and he sought to share his joy with them through his infectious laughter.

TJ was preceded in death by his father, Anthony Cunningham. TJ is survived by his mother, Cheryl Ferguson-Gilbert, step father Rondy V. Johnson, wife: Kristi Cunningham, children: Tiana Cunningham, Gabriella Cunningham, Trinity Cunningham, Kamari Cunningham, Kadence Cunningham, sisters: Zana (Jerry) Johnson, Veronica (Daniel) Zacharias, Tatrice Cunningham, brothers: Andre Cunningham, Tyrese McClinton EL, nephew: Chantz J. Johnson, childhood best friend: Keith Ladson. TJ leaves behind a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

Charitable Request: In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Hinkley High School.

Funeral Service: February 25, 2019 1:00 pm

Heritage Christian Center
14401 E Exposition Ave
Aurora, CO 80012
303-739-5080
https://heritagechristiancenter.com/