Obituary

CUNNINGHAM, Irelynn Grace, an energetic and caring seven-year-old who loved everyone she met, passed away Thursday, October 6th, 2022, at Dayton Children's Hospital after a long-fought battle with cancer.



Irelynn Grace was a 2nd grader at Schenck Elementary in Franklin. Even through the pain and trials of health issues, she never lost her smile. She was a hugger and loved everyone she met. She loved laughing and joking with others, was not afraid to tell her parents what she wanted or liked, and was motherly to her little brother - who she adored. However, she could also be shy around boys she just met and could be dramatic, aptly described as a teenage girl in a seven-year-old's body.



Irelynn Grace's favorite colors were purple and pink. She collected stuffed animals, which she called "Snuggies," and unicorns. She loved coloring, painting, and crafts, especially those involving hearts. She also liked the outdoors, whether it be hiking, visiting parks, swimming, or simply playing outside with her brother or her six female cousins, who she loved. She loved jewelry, polishing her nails, and singing and dancing to the Sing movies, Katy Perry's Roar, and pop hit songs. In addition, she especially loved animals, especially koala bears and her dogs, Willow and Bandit.



Some of her fondest memories included visiting Myrtle Beach, which she described as "hotel beach," and a trip to Dillon State Park near Zanesville in Ohio. She always wanted to visit Hawaii after seeing a TV show involving the destination. Among many things, she will always be remembered for her immense strength, her infectious smile, and her beautiful hands.



She is survived by her loving parents, Kyle Cunningham and Crystal Dillon; two brothers, Tristan Dillon and Lawson Cunningham; her sister, Mailynn Dillon; her grandparents, Bill and Mary Cunningham and Diana Williams; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her grandfather, Johnny Williams.



The family will receive friends 5 -8 PM Wednesday, October 12, at Stubbs-Conner Funeral Home in Waynesville. A celebration of life service will be held at 11 AM Thursday at the funeral home, followed by a committal service and burial at Miami Cemetery in Corwin. If desired, contributions may be made in Irelynn Grace's memory to Dayton Children's Hospital