Cunningham

The late Phillip Cunningham of Tupelo recently was honored by Sen. Trent Lott (R.-Miss.) and the 106th Congress.

A longtime Tupelo gardener, Cunningham accumulated savings over the years, $38,000 of which he bequeathed to the university for establishment of an endowed scholarship that will bear his name.

The L. D. Hancock Foundation of Tupelo is matching the gift to the scholarship fund, which will support students enrolled in majors such as landscape architecture or horticulture.

Cunningham died in February 1997.

In his address to Congress on Jan. 21, Senator Lott said:

"We have all heard stories about individuals who give generously or leave the bulk of their estates to causes and charities that are dear to them. This story is yet another example that the kindred American spirit is alive and well . . . .

"Here was a modest man who made a significant contribution. Not only was this 85-year-old a skilled gardener with, as some affectionately would say, 'the Midas touch,' but also a dear friend . . . .

"Mr. President, I thank my colleagues for letting me share this inspiring story and pay tribute to this fine gentleman. The landscapes he worked on will 'bear fruit' for years to come, and so will the students who benefit from his scholarship. They, too, will blossom."