William Cunningham

William Jason Cunningham (“Billy”)

May 2, 1970 – August 18, 2025

Auburn, Michigan

    William Jason Cunningham, affectionately known as Billy, passed away peacefully on August 18, 2025, at the age of 55. He was surrounded by his loving family at his bedside in Auburn, Michigan.

Born on May 2, 1970, Billy graduated from Bay City Central High School in 1988. A lifelong resident of Bay County, he was known for his generous heart, creative hands, and deep devotion to those he loved. Whether he was playing his guitars, tackling a new project around the house. Enjoying bonfires and trips out to the river and cabin or simply lending a helping hand, Billy poured himself into everything he did.

Billy worked as a head supervisor at Bay Valley Plastics, where he was respected for his leadership and dedication. He also worked in maintenance at Brittany Manor and had a talent for carpentry, having framed houses for many years. He took great pride in his work and was always ready to lend his skills to help others.

He is survived by his devoted mother, Cherrie Withrow, and stepfather, Charles Withrow, with whom he shared a deep and special bond. He was a proud and loving father to William Jason Cunningham Jr. (“Sami”), Jenna Cunningham (Trevor), and Alissa Burkhardt (David), and a doting grandfather to Axton and Zara Cunningham, who brought him endless joy.

He is also survived by his beloved sisters, Peggy (Lorreign) Cunningham and Josette Smith, with whom he shared lifelong, unbreakable bonds. His love extended to many nieces and nephews—Casie, Alexa, Dakota, Autumn, Brianna, Paige, Lauren, Bella, and Randal—as well as great-nieces and nephews and him having a special bond with Eithan Cunningham. Each of them held a special place in his heart.

Billy was preceded in death by his son, Ian Cunningham; his father, Mike Schneider; his nephew, Zackary; his great-nephew, Wolfe; and his loyal dog, Puppet. Though gone, their memories remained close to him always.

A “mama’s boy” in the best sense, Billy cherished his mother beyond words. He had a deep and loyal love for his dog, Molly, and a special friendship with Shirley Galbraith, Matt Corrious, and Eileen Marshall, who was like a second mother and whose presence brought him comfort and joy. He was always the life of the party, known for his humor, his warmth, and his unforgettable catchphrase—“Hey, Petunia!” “And Come On!” His quiet strength, kind soul, and fierce love for his family will be remembered by all who knew him.

His legacy lives on in the music he played, the lives he touched, the work he took pride in, and the family he so deeply loved.

The Funeral Service for Billy will take place Monday, August 25, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Squires Funeral Home, 211 N. Henry Street, Bay City, MI 48706. Pastor Rick Milks will officiate, and committal will be in Floral Gardens Cemetery. Family and friends will gather at the funeral home on Sunday, August 24, 2025, from 1:00 to 7:00 PM and again on Monday after 10:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy are encouraged to make monetary donations to the family in care of Cherrie Withrow. Please share photos, stories, or a simple message for the family on Billy’s Tribute Wall of his obituary @ squiresfuneralhome.com