[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 208 (Wednesday, December 9, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1121]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          ROSCOE D. CUNNINGHAM

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JOHN SHIMKUS

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, December 9, 2020

  Mr. SHIMKUS. Madam Speaker, I rise before you today to remember 
Roscoe D. Cunningham--a remarkably accomplished man who made an 
unforgettable impact in Lawrence County, Illinois in his 97 years.
  Roscoe was born on September 15, 1923 to Roscoe and Bessie Cooper 
Cunningham. He graduated from Sumner High School in 1941, a place which 
instilled his love of learning and ability to quote poetry. He, then, 
attended the University of Illinois, but put a halt on his degree to 
serve in World War II European Operations. He proudly served in the 
United States Army, Rainbow Division 4th Operations as a forward 
Observer with the artillery division where he was involved with the 
aeronautical observation of the dropping of bombs on enemy locations. 
In 1946, Roscoe was honorably discharged from active duty with the rank 
of 1st Lieutenant.
  Returning to U of I, Roscoe earned a JD from the School of Law and 
was admitted to the Illinois Bar in 1948. He practiced law in Lawrence 
County for over 72 years. Roscoe proved to be a strong community 
leader, dedicating his life to bettering his community in Lawrence 
County. He was considered one of the county's most vocal advocates and, 
in 2018, was awarded the Key to the City by Lawrenceville. He also 
participated extensively in state and national politics, serving as the 
States Attorney for four terms, the Illinois State Legislature for four 
terms, and Delegate to the Republican National Convention for three 
sessions. As an lllinois State Representative for the 54th District, 
Roscoe also proved to be a vocal advocate for his district. It is noted 
that he spoke eloquently from the House Floor and he could capture a 
room's attention. Roscoe was also involved in more than 20 election 
campaigns throughout the years and he enjoyed meeting with and helping 
constituents.
  Roscoe married Katheryn Suzanne Cunningham on May 1, 1954. They 
shared 64 years of marriage and raised five children. Roscoe was 
frequently seen riding bikes with his children and/or grandchildren. At 
87, he continued to bike from Sumner to Olney in support of the Special 
Olympics.
  Striving to better his community, Roscoe prioritized community 
service. He was especially proud of establishing and advancing the 
Cunningham's Golden Age Club No. 1. His favorite Bible verse was Luke 
9:62 which reads, ``No one, having put his hand to the plow, and 
looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.'' These words inspired 
Roscoe to re-establish the hometown newspaper in his later years. The 
sections he created have led to The Sumner Press's legacy as the 
longest running, locally owned newspaper in Southern Illinois. Roscoe 
was an active member at First Christian Church for 66 years. He 
recognized the importance of Sunday School and spent many years 
teaching Sunday School to participate in the education of young 
students in their faith. He was a member of many community 
organizations, including the Lawrence County Shrine Club, Lawrence 
County Republicans, and a lifetime member of the V.F.W. Post 2244, to 
name but a few among his expansive list of which he was a member.
  Madam Speaker, I take this time to recognize a true agent of change 
in Lawrence County. Lawrence County will surely miss him, but they are 
left with his incomparable legacy.

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