Catherine Elizabeth "Liz" Cunningham March 1, 1957 - August 4, 2026 Catherine Elizabeth "Liz" Cunningham (nee Pfuhl), of Stratford, Conn., passed away on August 4, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, laughter, and unwavering devotion to those she cared for. A proud Jersey girl at heart, Liz cherished her roots and especially treasured the lifelong friendships she made while growing up in Brigantine. Whether she was spending a day at the beach, traveling to a new destination, or dancing along at a concert, she embraced life with enthusiasm and a joyful spirit. Above all, her greatest happiness came from time spent with her family, especially her three beloved grandsons, who brought endless pride and joy to her life. Liz was a graduate of Holy Spirit High School in Absecon and Our Lady of Lourdes School of Nursing in Camden. Never one to stop learning, she returned to school mid-career to earn both her Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Nursing from Graceland University, demonstrating a determination and lifelong love of learning that inspired those around her. Liz dedicated her professional life to caring for others as a labor and delivery nurse, helping countless families welcome new babies into the world. She worked at hospitals in New Jersey, Texas, and Connecticut, spending most of her career at Bridgeport Hospital. Liz's commitment to nursing extended beyond the bedside, as she also taught and mentored new nurses, helping shape the next generation of caregivers with the same knowledge, kindness, and professionalism that defined her own career. Liz is survived by her devoted husband, Gerard "Jerry" Cunningham; her daughter, Kate Rutledge (Mark); her son, Thomas Cunningham (Brittany); her cherished grandsons, Connor, Jackson, and Solomon; her sister, Samee; her brother, John; and many beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends whose lives were enriched by her kindness and generosity. Her loved ones will forever miss her quick wit, infectious laugh, candid advice, and adventurous spirit. Though her absence leaves an immeasurable void, the stories she created, the lives she touched, and the love she shared will continue to inspire all who knew her.

Friends may greet the family on Sunday August 30, 2026 from 4:00 – 8:00p.m. in the Dennis & D’Arcy – Abriola & Kelemen Funeral Home, 2611 Main St. Stratford.

The Connecticut Nurses Honor Guard will perform the “Nightingale Tribute” at 5:00p.m. in the funeral home.

A Mass of Christian Burial took place in St. Thomas Church, Brigantine, NJ.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation