Elva Cunningham

Elva Cunningham, 90, passed away peacefully in Montgomery, Texas, on June 14, 2026. She was born on January 27, 1936, in La Grulla, Texas, to Cresencio and Francisca Solis.

Elva loved her family and friends more than anything and cherished every moment spent with them. A loving grandmother and great-grandmother, she adored her family and created countless memories that will be treasured forever. She was funny, quick-witted, and had a larger-than-life personality that could light up any room. She never met a stranger and had a special gift for making everyone feel welcome.

Elva loved listening to mariachi music, sipping margaritas, and never passing up dessert. She and her beloved husband, Harry Cunningham, shared 51 wonderful years of marriage. Together they enjoyed traveling, visiting casinos, and making memories until his passing. She now joins him in heaven.

Elva worked as a translator at MD Anderson, where she took great pride in helping others as a patient advocate. She formed many friendships and had fond memories throughout her career there.

She is survived by her two sons, Israel Villarreal and Roland Villarreal and his wife, Susan; her grandchildren, PJ Villarreal and Nicole Franklin and her husband, Ford; and her three great-grandchildren, Rivers, Luke, and Foster Franklin. She also leaves behind one brother Armin Solis and six sisters: Aida Gomez, Diana Garza, Marisela Fernandez, Maria Mendoza, Gloria Baker, Leticia Calvin, and her dear friend, Yolanda Klagmann, who was like a sister to her along with many extended family members and friends who will miss her deeply.

Elva was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Harry Cunningham; her parents, Cresencio and Francisca Solis; and her two brothers Cresencio Solis Jr. and Juan Solis.

Elva will be remembered for her infectious laugh, her generous spirit, her unwavering love for her family, and the joy she brought to everyone who knew her. Her legacy of kindness, humor, and living life to the fullest will continue to inspire those she leaves behind.