Joseph Michael Cunningham, 76, of Taylorsville, died Thursday, Nov. 13, 2025, at Kindred Hospital in Louisville. He was born April 23, 1949, in Louisville to the late Romona Culver Cunningham. He was a retired chief of police for Lynnview Police Department. He also served on the Shively Police Department and Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office. He was a U.S. Army veteran of the Vietnam War Era.
He loved his family, and was also a longtime professional boxing referee which he also loved. He was appointed by the governor as the Kentucky Athletic Commissioner for boxing and wrestling.
He is survived by two sons, Steven Michael (Elizabeth) Cunningham of Shively and Chad Michael (Jennifer) Cunningham of Taylorsville; three sisters, Judy Lampton, Nancy Geary, and Greta Tucker, all of Louisville;
two grandchildren, Austin Cunningham and Ethan (Karey) Cunningham; one niece that was like his sister, Tracy Henry of Louisville; and several nieces and nephews.
Visitation is 3-8 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025, at the Greenwell-Houghlin Funeral Home in Taylorsville. Cremation will follow the services.
The Greenwell-Houghlin Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
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