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Carol Cunningham, a longtime Oconee County educator who died Wednesday, is shown at a recognition ceremony for her husband, Bennie Cunningham Sr., upon his retirement from the school board. Bennie Cunningham Jr., a former tight end who played for the Clemson Tigers and Pittsburgh Steelers during his football career, is also pictured. Photo courtesy of the School District of Oconee County

SENECA — Carol Cunningham filled many roles during her lifetime — as a guidance counselor at Seneca High School, a member of Seneca City Council and, most importantly, a loving wife, mother and grandmother.

Although Cunningham died Wednesday night, her influence on the lives she touched will forever be felt.

“She was a wonderful guidance counselor and educator who will be missed,” said Kay Powell, public information officer for the School District of Oconee County. “Many of the lessons taught by her will never be forgotten.”

Oconee County School Board Chairman Harry Mays Jr., who served alongside Cunningham’s husband Bennie Cunningham Sr. for many years, believes she felt a closeness to each and every student with whom she came in contact.

“She was a very caring person,” Mays said, adding, “The advice she gave to many students are what she would give her own sons.”

Seneca Mayor Pro Tem Ronnie O’Kelley, a 1978 graduate of Seneca High School, enjoyed the unique opportunity to have Cunningham as his guidance counselor and to later serve with her on City Council during the 1990s.

“I never heard a negative word come out of her mouth,” O’Kelley said. “Mrs. Cunningham made you feel you were even with everybody because she didn’t play favorites.”

During the time when both served on City Council, O’Kelley said he continued to benefit from Mrs. Cunningham’s guidance.

“She was an awesome listener and when she spoke, she had a lot of knowledge,” he said. Former Oconee County School Superintendent James DuPre served with Bennie Cunningham Sr. on the school board and immediately thought of his good friend after learning of Mrs. Cunningham’s passing.

“I know they were very close and I’m very sorry for his loss,” DuPre said.

O’Kelley said Mrs. Cunningham was a reflection of her entire family, a family he refers to as “classy.”

“They are good Christian people whom I respect to this day,” he said.

The Daily Journal and Daily Messenger received no details regarding funeral arrangements as of press time.