Cynthia Richards Cunningham, 73, of Bel Air, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 14, 2026. Born in Ohio, Cynthia lived a life defined by love, generosity, and unwavering devotion to her family, students, and community.

Cynthia was the beloved daughter of the late Robert Carl Richards and the late Lois Virginia (Shaul) Richards.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Steven William Cunningham; her loving sons and their wives, Andrew (Zibbi) Cunningham and Peter (Daniela) Cunningham; and her cherished grandchildren, William Cunningham, Alexander Cunningham, Frida Cunningham, Owen Cunningham and step-grandchildren Trey Wentz and Zarin Wentz. She is also survived by her dear sister, Barbara Wiechel, and her brother, Robert Richards. Cynthia was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend — truly a mother to everyone who needed her nurturing spirit.

A proud 1975 graduate of Ohio Wesleyan University, Cynthia dedicated her life to education. Teaching kindergarten was her pride and joy, and she served as a beloved and respected educator in both Harford County and Baltimore County schools. Throughout her distinguished career, she touched countless lives at William S. James Elementary School, Ring Factory Elementary School, Deep Creek Elementary School, Hawthorne Elementary School, and Dundalk Elementary School. Cynthia was deeply admired by fellow staff, students, and parents alike. She devoted herself to showing love and support to children at such a crucial and formative time in their lives. Sweet, humble, incredibly generous, and endlessly giving, she nurtured everyone around her and took special care of those who needed her most.

Family was the center of Cynthia’s world. She was the glue that held everything together and the cherished keeper of family traditions. Time spent together was invaluable to her, and she was happiest surrounded by those she loved. She adored the beach and loved her frequent trips down to Bethany Beach. She treasured traveling the world with her husband. Together, they shared adventures in France, Germany, England, Czechoslovakia, Spain, Argentina, and Saudi Arabia, creating memories that will be cherished forever.

Cynthia also greatly valued her friendships, including her friends from the YMCA water aerobics class, where she found joy in community and connection.

She will be remembered as the kindest soul — a loving wife, sister, mother, grandmother, friend, and lifelong teacher. Her warmth, strength, and boundless compassion shaped generations of children and left a lasting imprint on all who had the privilege of knowing her.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Kaufman Cancer Center.