Melba Jean Cunningham Sawyer

Melba Jean Cunningham Sawyer, age 92, of Rutherford, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on November 6, 2025, at Dyer Nursing Home.

Melba was born on August 22, 1933, in Gibson County, Tennessee, to the late Haywood and Mary Thompson. She was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Peggy Ann Thompson; her first husband, Harold Cunningham; her second husband, Lloyd Sawyer; and her beloved daughter, Cindy Jean Cunningham Harris.

She is survived by her son, Dennis Cunningham; three grandchildren, Chad Cunningham, Tiffany Harris, and Kasey (Courtney) Harris; eight great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren.

Melba worked for many years at Bill’s Dollar Store in Dyer before retiring. A faithful member of the Rutherford Church of Christ, she attended for many years until her health no longer allowed. Melba will be fondly remembered for her deep love of family, her delicious cooking, her caring spirit, her quick wit, and funny sayings, and, above all, her steadfast love for her Savior, Jesus Christ.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, November 9, from 12 Noon until 2:00 p.m. at Karnes and Son Funeral Home in Rutherford, with funeral services to follow at 2:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Rutherford Cemetery.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Dyer Nursing Home for the compassionate and professional care shown to Melba during her years there.

Melba was special to many and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the Rutherford Church of Christ or to The Gideons International in her memory.