Last updated on: July 1, 2025
Marlene Cunningham is the mother of Ryan Tedder. OneRepublic’s lead singer, Ryan is also a well-known songwriter and music producer. Marlene played an important role in Ryan’s success, even though she is not a celebrity.
She was a teacher in school. She enjoyed learning and teaching. Marlene brought up Ryan with good values. She made him who he is now.
Quick Facts About Marlene Cunningham
| Full Name | Marlene Cunningham |
| Birthdate | 1955 |
| Age | 71 years old |
| Occupation | School Teacher (Retired) |
| Education | N/A |
| Husband/Wife | Philip Cunningham (Current), Garry Tedder (Former) |
| Parents | Not known |
| Siblings | Not known |
| Children | Ryan Tedder (Son) |
| Stepchildren | Michele Skelton, Tamra Cunningham |
| Grandchildren | Copeland Cruz Tedder, Milas Tedder |
| Religion | Christian |
| Residence | Tulsa, Oklahoma |
| Net Worth | <$1 million |
A Loving and Supportive Mother
Marlene was always encouraging Ryan’s ambitions. She saw his passion for music when he was just a little boy. Ryan began learning the piano at the age of three. He started singing at age seven.
Marlene urged him to continue. She provided him with room to develop. Her encouragement made Ryan believe in himself.
Her Family Life
Marlene was initially married to Garry Tedder. Garry was a musician. They had one son—Ryan. Marlene then married Philip Cunningham, who then became Ryan’s stepfather.
She is also the stepmother of Michele Skelton and Tamra Cunningham, stepsisters of Ryan. Philip and Marlene reside in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Here is a brief glimpse at her family:
- Husband (current): Philip Cunningham
- Ex-Husband: Garry Tedder
- Son: Ryan Tedder
- Stepsisters: Michele Skelton, Tamra Cunningham
- Grandchildren: Copeland Cruz Tedder (born 2010), Milas Tedder (born 2014)
- Daughter-in-law: Genevieve Tedder (wife of Ryan)
A Christian Home
Marlene brought up Ryan in a Christian environment. Pastors and missionaries surrounded their household. God was an integral part of everyday life.
That provided a solid foundation for Ryan. He absorbed discipline and compassion. These principles continue to direct him today.
Life in Tulsa, Oklahoma
Marlene and her husband Philip remain in Tulsa, Oklahoma. This was Ryan’s childhood home. He still talks a lot about his hometown. Marlene and Philip keep a quiet life there.
They are proud of Ryan. They have seen him develop from a young music enthusiast into a global star.
Her Role as a Teacher
As a teacher, Marlene enjoyed teaching others to learn. She incorporated this enthusiasm for learning into her home.
She guided Ryan. She provided him with structure. This assisted him in balancing school and music. Her direction made a significant impact on his early years.
READ ALSO: Ryan Tedder Net worth, Age, Wife, Family, Facts & More
What Ryan Says About Her
Ryan has stated that his mother believed in him from the beginning. She recognized that he had something special. She believed in his talent.
She pushed him to learn instruments, write songs, and pursue his dreams. Ryan’s success today is partly due to her love for him and her belief in his abilities.
Her Family Heritage
The family background of Marlene also runs deep. Her grandfather was Cornelius Benjamin Watrous. This indicates that Ryan hails from a long line of family with an illustrious past.
