Mary Ellen Cunningham

Mary Ellen Cunningham, 72, Auburn, passed away Saturday, August 31, 2013, at Homestead of Auburn. Mary Ellen was born November 9, 1940, in Bridgeton, IN, the daughter of Harold "Jake" and Anna May Bridgewater. She graduated from Brazil High School in Brazil, IN and attended Midwest School of Evangelism in Ottumwa, IA. She co-owned Aards Trash Hauling Service for 25 years, retiring in 2003. She was also a supervisor monitor at Topeka Christian Academy. She was a member of Southwest Christian Church where she taught Sunday School classes and Vacation Bible School.

Survivors include a son, Kendall (Linzett) Cunningham, Wichita; daughter, Carolyn (Dan) Taylor, Sterling; grandchildren, Nicole Taylor, Wesley Cunningham, Bella Cunningham; business partner, Ray Cunningham; sisters, Janice Piatt, Judy Rinn; and brother, Darrel Bridgewater. She was preceded in death by her parents; and sisters, Marilyn Tallman, Bonnie Lewis, Elaine Bridgewater; and brother, Lawrence Bridgewater.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday September 7, 2013, at Southwest Christian Church, 5747 SW Huntoon, Topeka, Kansas 66604. Private family inurnment will be at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to Topeka Rescue Mission, PO Box 8350, Topeka, Kansas 66608 or Shiloh Christian Home c/o Southwest Christian Church. Penwell-Gabel Mid-Town Chapel is assisting with arrangements. To leave a special memory of Mary Ellen, please visit the guestbook below.