Jewell Morgan Cunningham, 97, a longtime resident of Slidell, entered the gates of Heaven on Monday, September 23, 2024, at home surrounded by loved ones.

Jewell was born August 8, 1927, in Milneburg, New Orleans, Louisiana, to Louis and Clementine Morgan. In 1950 she married Leon Cunningham, the love of her life!

During her younger years, Jewell was a hat model for DH Holmes in New Orleans, restaurant owner with her husband in Abbeville, Alabama, and an Administrative Assistant to Cecil Hargrove of Tranquility Plantation in Slidell.

Eventually she began her long and fulfilling career with Bank of Slidell as a teller. She proudly retired many years later as a Vice President in 1992.

Jewell was a true Southern Lady who was known for her graciousness, hospitality, and her ability to cook the most delicious meals. Her life centered around her husband and cooking was one of her "love languages ". She and her husband enjoyed entertaining around the kitchen table. Their home was always filled with family, friends, good food and lots of laughter!

Jewell loved her family dearly and was so proud of her grandchildren and great grandchildren.  Many of her nieces and nephews viewed her as a mother figure, always offering support, encouragement, counsel, and discipline when necessary. She was a great role model.

Jewell Cunningham will be greatly missed by her family and friends. Her memory will forever live in the Hearts of those who knew and loved her. She was indeed a special "JEWEL".

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Leon Cunningham; brother, Kosman Morgan; sisters, Ethel Parker, Louise Giglio; special nephews, Vincent Tomczak, Sigmund Tomczak, Johnny Parker; nieces, Judy Martin, Joyce Krantz, and Elizabeth Mascaro.

She is survived by her loving stepdaughter, Starr Haaga (Gary); her adoring grandchildren, Brett Haaga (Melanie), Ashley Haaga Speed (Marcus); greatgrandchildren, Brittany Haaga Riera (Grant), Christopher Haaga, Lauren Speed, Ethan Speed; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and her faithful dog Molly.

Funeral Services will be held at Honaker Funeral Home, 1751 Gause Blvd West, Slidell LA 70460 on Saturday, September 28, 2024.

Visitation will begin at 12:00 noon followed by the funeral service at 1:00

From an early age Jewell had a special love for animals. She cared for many stray animals giving them a loving home. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Animal Assistance League of Slidell, 2700 Terrace Ave, Slidell, LA 70458.