Henrietta H. (Nee Smith) Cunningham, 99 years old, longtime resident of Portsmouth, peacefully passed away on April 3, 2025, at SOMC hospice.
Born in Otway, Ohio, on August 12, 1925, to Walter and Mayme (Nee Pieper) Smith, Henrietta’s life was characterized by compassion, creativity, and an unwavering spirit. Alongside her husband, Harold, she was a proud owner of Atlas Fashions and the Criterion Men’s Clothing stores, shaping the landscape of downtown Portsmouth. Her heart was forever intertwined with service; as an active member of the Second Presbyterian Church and the Ladies Hospital Guild. Henrietta offered her hands and heart to many, attending countless events and nurturing the spirits of those around her.
Henrietta’s artistic soul knew no bounds, as she studied light opera at the College of Music in Cincinnati during World War II, a testament to her deep appreciation for beauty and expression. She was a coloratura soprano with a classical, operatic voice.
In 1947, she married her beloved husband Harold Cunningham, sharing 46 wonderful years until his passing in 1993. Not long after his passing, the unexpected passing of her daughter-in-law, Rebecca (Nee Blackburn) Cunningham, allowed her the opportunity to help provide loving care for her grandson, Sean.
Henrietta is preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Mayme (Nee Pieper) Smith; her dear husband Harold; her sister Betty (Nee Smith) Adams; and her daughter-in-law Rebecca. She leaves behind a legacy of love in her devoted daughter Carole and son-in-law Michael Seibert of Mount Dora, Florida; her son Jeffrey Cunningham of Portsmouth; and her adored grandson Sean Cunningham of Portsmouth.
A private Graveside service to celebrate Henrietta’s remarkable life will be held at the convenience of the family, interment in Memorial Burial Park in Wheelersburg, Ohio.
Donations in her memory may be made to Second Presbyterian Church, 801 Waller Street, Portsmouth, OH 45662, or Otway Community Church, State Rt.73, Otway, OH 45657.
Please visit www.fcdaehlermortuary.com to leave a special memory of Henrietta or condolences for her family.
