Donald Leon Cunningham, 81, of Pineland, passed away on July 15, 2026 in Lufkin. Born on February 13, 1945, in Harris County, to Christopher Washington Cunningham and Armentha Martin Cunningham, Donald was a lifelong resident of Sabine County. A self-employed carpenter, he was a cherished member of the Rosevine Church of God. Donald was a true cowboy at heart, who loved hunting and riding horses. Known for his dry sense of humor, he was a man of few words but a jokester among those who knew him well. He deeply cherished his role as a grandfather, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and love.

He is survived by his son, Christopher Cunningham of Roanoke, VA; daughters, Donna Falwell and her husband, Eddie, of Gretna, VA, Gina Sexton and her husband, Andy, of Lufkin, and Angela Anderson and her husband, Rick, of Alabama; brother, Gene Hudspeth of Alabama; stepson, Robert Cassell of Pineland; stepdaughters, Diane Chesson of Jasper and Machelle Fernandez and her husband, Manuel, of New Jersey; special friend, Christi Swearingen of Lumberton; friend and caregiver, Donna Billingsly of Pineland; and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. Donald was preceded in death by his parents, Christopher and Armentha Cunningham, and his son, Michael 'Pete' Cassel.

Funeral services were held on Friday, July 17, 2026, at Starr Funeral Home Chapel Burial followed at Martin Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Josh Latham, Brennan Rivas, Manson Billiot, Jr., Larry Keller, Charles Price, and Michael Helmer. Honorary pallbearers are Thomas Shoemaker and Robby Cassel.

Starr Funeral Home in Hemphill will be handling the arrangements.

Memories and condolences may be shared at starrfuneralhome. com.