Obituary: Alyce Humphrey Cunningham
Alyce Humphrey Cunningham August 27, 1946-November 16, 2021
Kinston-Alyce Humphrey Cunningham was received into the open arms of Jesus on Tuesday, November 16, 2021. Though her departure was swift and unexpected, the imprint of her love and generosity will remain indelibly on the hearts of everyone she knew.
Alyce was born in Putnam County, Florida to the late Daniel “Bill” Colie and Dorothy Owens Colie on August 27, 1946. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband and the father of her children, Thomas “Tommy” Humphrey; brothers, Dan and Sam Colie; and her mother-in-law whom she loved as her own, Clara Humphrey.
With a pep in her step and a smile on her face, Alyce’s bubbly and energetic personality was a ray of sunshine for everyone she met. From special birthday phone calls to handwritten notes and cards in the mail, every show of love and concern extended from Alyce to friends a family as evidence of her sincere effort to make everyone feel special and cared for. It was not uncommon for her to drive a friend to a hair appointment, doctor’s office, or the grocery store when they needed a ride. She went out of her way to place the needs of others ahead of her own. Alyce anonymously blessed those in need, never wanting or needing a “thank you” in return. She believed in Matthew 6:1, knowing that recognition only from her Heavenly Father was what mattered most. For Alyce, family came second only to Jesus.
The very definition of a Proverbs 31 lady, Alyce was a loving wife who cared for the needs of her husband and children. Quick to forgive and slow to condemn, her patience and prayers brought her children and family through every battle or circumstance. Alyce’s anticipated Monday morning texts were a source of strength, encouragement, and family connection between her and her grandchildren. “Grandma” to some and “Nana” to others, Alyce adored her grandchildren and was so proud of their many accomplishments. Friends and church family filled some of the empty space in her heart following the passing of her husband, Tommy. She connected with a group of ladies who were all experiencing similar loss and their relationship became an unbreakable circle of friendship.
This special group could be seen out together for a quick bite at lunch, a sit-down dinner, a church activity, and even attending funeral services together. They brought one another and so many others comfort when they faced the pain of loss.
Alyce was blessed to find friendship and love after loss. Though the two attended the same church for many years, it took a long wait at Yoder’s Dutch Pantry to ease the nerves of Alyce and Lynwood before they could relax and enjoy one another’s company. “Just being Alyce” was enough to captivate Lynwood’s heart. Their many commonalities and compatible personalities just “clicked”. Their relationship progressed from friendship to a companionship in marriage that fulfilled their hearts.
Family will receive friends for a time of visitation and fellowship at Bethel Free Will Baptist Church, where she attended as a member for over 45 years, on Thursday, November 18, 2021, from 6-8 p.m. The family respectfully requests the wearing of masks during visitation. Funeral services will be held on Friday, November 19, 2021, at 11 a.m. at Bethel Free Will Baptist Church in Kinston, with committal following at Pinelawn Memorial Park.
Alyce is survived by her husband and sweetheart, Lynwood Cunningham; three children, Chris Humphrey and wife, Terry, Michael Humphrey and wife, Ashley, and Tara Humphrey Beatty and husband, Jeremi; grandchildren, Bailey Humphrey, Courtney Humphrey, Hunter Coulombe, Clara Paige Beatty, Anna Beatty, Thomas Humphrey, and Sam Beatty; step-children, Donna Potter and husband, Bert, and Greg Thompson and wife, Teresa; step-grandchildren, Tyler Potter, Ben Potter, Leah Thompson, and Brett Thompson; siblings, Diana Schipper and husband, David, Kathy Colie Jones and husband, Carl, and Gwen Clayton and husband, Charlie; along with several nieces and nephews.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com.
Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange.
