Message from The Johnstons
June 3, 2017 2:57 PM
Dear Deanie and family,
We were so sad to read in the Banner-Herald of Mark's untimely death - "the little boy next door."
In sympathy,
Joyce, Francis, and Michael Johnston
A candle was lit by Tate Arroyo
on May 31, 2017 5:28 PM
A candle was lit by Angela Gregory
on May 31, 2017 5:17 PM
Message from Pam and Tony Shipley
May 31, 2017 4:49 PM
We are so saddened by your loss Ann, your true love. We wish Mark could have joined us last May so we would have had the privilege to spend time with him. While reading all these postings here, as well as on Facebook, I can understand why he had such a positive, lasting, and special impression on all who knew him. Thank you for sharing his music, we so enjoyed it. You, your boys, and all family are in our hearts and prayers. Our arms are wrapped around you.
A candle was lit by Amber Harris
on May 31, 2017 6:29 AM
A candle was lit by Amber Harris
on May 31, 2017 6:29 AM
Message from Nathan Collins
May 30, 2017 4:22 PM
Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. I'm very sorry.
Message from Sigma Nu Fraternity - Georgia Southern
May 30, 2017 3:06 PM
On behalf of Sigma Nu Fraternity, we extend our greatest condolences and wish to express our deep sorrow on Mark’s passing - he will always live in our hearts and prayers. Mark will be deeply missed by all those he knew and touched as on member said: “college was fun (a great experience) and Mark made it entertaining.” May the love of friends and family as well as your fond memories carry you through your grief – god speed to those in mourning. We offer our deepest sympathy and three white roses to the family and friends – one from the collegiate chapter, one from the alumni chapter, and one from Sigma Nu Fraternity. Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Cunningham family. This is sent on behalf of all his brothers at Sigma Nu Fraternity - Georgia Southern University.
Message from Wendy Morgan
May 30, 2017 11:27 AM
Ann, Daniel and Charlie, you are in the thoughts of so many people at LFO HS. I am truly very sorry for your loss. Daniel is an excellent student who, no doubt, has been influenced by Mark's many accomplishments, as well as, so many others in your family. If I can help, please don't hesitate to call on me.
Message from Eddie Reeves
May 30, 2017 9:45 AM
Mark was a wonderful person, and it was a pleasure knowing him at Georgia Southern and being in Sigma Nu with him. His personality was contagious, and he lit up a room anytime he was in it. His time here with us was cut short, but I know that he is making people laugh just by being in his presence in heaven. A wonderful person for sure. He will be missed, but leaves countless friends to always remember him.
A candle was lit by Julie Holloway
on May 30, 2017 7:10 AM
Message from John and Renee Gillick
May 29, 2017 5:19 PM
I cannot believe you are gone my friend. You were my first american roommate, the best man in our wedding and the Godparent to my children. You gave me a copy of you novel, "The Home Place". In it, you inscribed the following to our son recently born," May you always climb the ladder to the stars, never missing anything, and may you stay forever young". Your heart has always and will always make you forever young my friend. Until we meet again..
A candle was lit by John and Renee Gillick
on May 29, 2017 5:11 PM
A candle was lit by Pat Case
on May 29, 2017 1:10 PM
Message from Patricia Case
May 29, 2017 1:08 PM
Condolences to Mark's family. Shocked at losing such a sweet young man. Hard to digest he's gone, but not forgotten..
Message from Tammy Paulson, Watkinsville Ga
May 29, 2017 8:04 AM
I am so sad this world has to say goodbye to such a sweet man. His heart was as big as his smile. My condolences go out to his family and friends. Heaven has another angel. Rest In Peace Mark.
A candle was lit by Kim (Weaber) Cooper
on May 29, 2017 12:18 AM
Message from Stacey Gracia and Family
May 28, 2017 10:51 PM
Our sincerest condolences on the passing of your husband. We are praying God's strength will be a comfort to you and your family.
Message from Chattanooga
May 28, 2017 10:38 PM
Mark,
I just got to know you and this comes as quite a shock. I'm sorry we didn't do the lunch as we were planning. I can tell you were a happy and blessed man. God bless and enjoy heaven! See you there some day!
Message from Jay Wise , Saint Simons Island
May 28, 2017 10:10 PM
I knew Mark initially from growing up in St James United Methodist and then all through school, he was one of those people who literally always had a smile and had good things to say, I was saddened to hear his life here was so short but I know he's singing and playing guitar and smiling so brightly above, prayers for his wife, mother and rest of family. GOD BLESS
Jay Wise
class of 1987 CCHS
From Athens lives in Saint Simons Island now
A candle was lit by Jay Wise
on May 28, 2017 10:03 PM
Message from Eric Moore
May 28, 2017 9:50 PM
Mark was my fraternity brother and roommate at Georgia Southern. 1987-88 was the highlight of my college career because that was the year we roomed together. As you can imagine, we had a little fun. It was never a dull moment with Mark. What I loved best about Mark was his sense of humor. It was always fun being right in the middle of one his adventures, then hearing him tell & re-tell the stories. As our friendship grew, I admired Mark for his pursuit of happiness. Writing books, then songs, he worked at it until he got it right. It seemed like each decade of his life was a new chapter of mastering something. I hate that we won't get to see what was next.
Anne, I know your years with Mark were few, but died a happy man because of you. Mrs. Cunningham, Pam & Tami peace & love to you all.
A candle was lit by Keith Roughton
on May 28, 2017 9:11 PM
Message from Statesboro
May 28, 2017 9:10 PM
Mark was always a joy to be around. He had a great way of saying something funny and profound. One of my foundest memories of college was taking a road trip with Mark over a spring break. I still have vivid memories of that trip. I am saddened by his passing and pray God keep his soul and provide peace and comfort to his loved ones. Rest in peace Mark.
A candle was lit by Rod Platt
on May 28, 2017 8:04 PM
Message from Douglas Keith
May 28, 2017 5:20 PM
Mark and I grew up in Athens public schools, and we were on the same bus route home from middle school. He always had a great positive attitude, and was kind to all. I am shocked and saddened by his death. Much love to his family and prayers that he rest in peace.
Message from Athens, GA
May 28, 2017 4:47 PM
I first met Mark at AthFest when the Burning Angels played there for the first time. He was so happy and excited to be playing, even though it was around 100 degrees outside. We also worked together on Strung Out Like the Lights, the annual Empty Stocking Fund benefit in Athens. Mark was such a kind and giving person. He had an enormous number of friends in Athens, and all of them are mourning his loss. Our prayers are with you.
A candle was lit by athens georgia
on May 28, 2017 12:50 PM
thoughts and prayers for friends and family
Message from Lisa Mende
May 28, 2017 2:13 PM
May your memory be an abiding blessing to those who loved you.
I will miss you smiling face and your wonderful music,
Say not in grief 'he is no more' but in thankfulness that he was.
Fly Free
A candle was lit by Susan Jones
on May 28, 2017 12:15 PM
Message from Bennie Mckinley
May 28, 2017 9:30 AM
May the family receive Peace from our Awesome Heavenly Father at times like this, praying for the family!
Message from Eugene and Anna Holshouser
May 28, 2017 6:48 AM
May peace fill your hearts as you remember happier times.
A candle was lit by Kim McKinley Kissiah
on May 28, 2017 2:57 AM
Message from Kim McKinley Kissiah
May 28, 2017 2:57 AM
I am at a loss. Mark, you were such a joy! We've been friends since 2nd grade and friends were remained. You always called me Kimmy and it made me laugh. I'll miss you my friend. Heaven will be even sweeter. Rest easy, my friend. We love you. 💔 😔
Message from Jodie Windal Kennedy
May 28, 2017 1:23 AM
I have known Mark since first grade in Athens. He was always a kind, gentle and friendly person. I'm so grateful he and Ann found each other in love, and that they shared their family together. Thinking of Ann and family with prayers and condolences.
Message from Sonuel Devlin
May 27, 2017 11:57 PM
It was my pleasure to have worked with such a beautiful soul during my time at Hilsman Middle School. He always inspired me daily with his friendly attitude and smile. Prayers for the family.
A candle was lit by Judy and Tal Martin
on May 27, 2017 11:34 PM
A candle was lit by Scott Kesler
on May 27, 2017 8:20 PM
Message from Laura Carithers
May 27, 2017 8:17 PM
My prayers go up for Mark's wife and extended family. I had the absolute pleasure of going to school at GSU with Mark and being a part of Sigma Nu with him. He had a way of brightening any room he walked in and Heaven has gained an amazing angel! God speed!
A candle was lit by Yvonne Highes
on May 27, 2017 8:14 PM
A candle was lit by Robbe Hedstrom
on May 27, 2017 8:07 PM