Obituary of Carolyn Cunningham

December 25, 1957 — February 8, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Carolyn Cunningham, our beloved mother, grandmother, teacher, and friend, who left this world on February 8, 2025 at the age of 67.

Born in Boston on Christmas of 1957, Carolyn was the youngest daughter of Mary Luccio and Thomas Crowne. She was preceded in death by her parents and brother John Crowne, who always held a special place in her heart. Carolyn is survived by her husband and best friend Lawrence Cunningham of Kingston; her loving children, Sean (Katrina) of Plymouth, Andrew (Kate) of Melrose, and Lea (Aaron) of Rochester, New Hampshire; and her six adoring grandchildren Teresa, Claire, Avila, Stella, Samuel, and Annabelle, who were the light of her life. She also leaves behind her sister Ellen McGowan of Nashua, New Hampshire, and brother Stephen Crowne of Rockville, Maryland, along with her loyal canine companion, Sully, who provided her with unwavering love and protection throughout his life.

After attending Hyde Park High School and Boston College, Carolyn dedicated her life to education, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of countless students over her 34-year teaching career. She began at St. Gregory's Elementary School in Dorchester before devoting more than twenty years at the middle schools of Marshfield. Carolyn was not just an educator; she was a mentor and a friend, known for her ability to build community through initiatives like her Veteran’s Day Assembly and Chess Club.

A deeply devoted Catholic, Carolyn was an active member of Holy Family Parish, where her faith was a guiding force in her life. She embraced the teachings of her faith with discipline and grace, and her spiritual community was an important part of her journey.

In her final days, Carolyn was surrounded by love and compassion, and her family expresses their heartfelt gratitude to the wonderful staff at Bay Path, and especially to Jill Abbett, who provided extraordinary care and support during this challenging time.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to ALS ONE or Compassionate Care ALS. Both organizations went above and beyond to provide emotional and physical support, counsel, and comfort for Carolyn, and so many others impacted by ALS.

Carolyn’s spirit will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her. A wake will be held at the Shepherd Funeral Home in Kingston, MA on Friday February 14th with visitation hours from 3pm until 7pm, with a funeral service at 10am Saturday, February 15th, at Holy Family Church in Duxbury.