Specialist Patsy Cunningham
(U.S. Army Veteran & Community Nurse)
Patsy Cunningham was born and raised in Lamesa, Texas, until the third grade, when her family moved to Hobbs, New Mexico, where she later graduated from high school. From an early age, Patsy dreamed of becoming a nurse and began her nursing education in El Paso, Texas. While in school, she met an airman who would soon become her husband.
Before finishing nursing school, Patsy returned home to help her family. Soon after, she answered the call to serve her country by joining the United States Army. After completing basic training, she was stationed at Fort Myer, Virginia, and worked in the Pentagon. During her service, she exchanged letters with Archie Cunningham, and over time their friendship blossomed into love. Archie proposed to her through letters and phone calls, and after their marriage, Patsy received an honorable discharge from the Army.
After returning home to Hobbs, the couple settled in Lovington, where they built a beautiful life together for more than 60 years. Both were devoted members of Hillcrest Baptist Church, where they served faithfully and were active in their community.
Patsy continued her passion for helping others by enrolling in nursing school at New Mexico Junior College (NMJC). She went on to serve the people of Lea County for 45 years at Nor-Lea Hospital, earning numerous honors and awards for her compassion and excellence. One of her proudest moments was being named Citizen of the Year, a recognition that celebrated her lifelong dedication to service.
Patriotism was central to Patsy and Archie’s lives. They often visited local schools to encourage students to honor the flag, appreciate their freedom, and remember the sacrifices of America’s veterans. Their home was also a place of refuge for children and youth who needed a safe space for the weekend — a true reflection of their giving hearts.
Together, they raised a loving family: one daughter, two sons, eight grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, and many beloved daughters- and sons-in-law. Patsy’s warmth, faith, and kindness left an indelible mark on everyone she met.
Later in life, Patsy proudly served as a member of the Lovington Honor Guard, attending veterans’ funerals and presenting grieving families with the folded American flag — a solemn symbol of gratitude for their loved one’s service.
We honor Specialist Patsy Cunningham for her service to our nation, her decades of compassionate nursing care, and her unwavering love for faith, family, and community. She represents the very best of what it means to be an American patriot.
