Farewell to a Johnnie’s Original 

When Doug Cunningham clocked out of Johnnie’s for the last time, it marked the end of an incredible era. After 52 years, Cunningham, 65, finally hung up his apron—though he admits he’ll still be in for an iced tea or two. 

“I’d just left junior high when I started,” he said. “I was 13, turning 14, washing dishes six nights a week from five to eleven. That’s not even legal now,” he laughed. 

What began as a teenage job turned into a lifelong calling. Cunningham stayed through high school and college at UCO, and when he got married at 21, he stepped into management. “That was 1981, the same year we opened the Edmond store,” he said. “At that time, there were just two Johnnie’s locations. Eventually, we grew to eight.” 

Cunningham credits founder Johnnie and his sons with shaping his work ethic. “Johnnie came from a different generation. It was ‘my way or the highway,’” he reflected, smiling. “He was straightforward, but he taught us to take criticism, work hard, and not be thin-skinned. We learned that when you work hard, you earn your place and have something to be proud of. Hard work is always rewarded.” 

Those lessons carried him through five decades in the restaurant industry and into countless friendships. On his last Friday, regulars filled the 325-seat dining room to say goodbye. “It was unbelievable,” Cunningham said. “I could tell you most of their first names and a little something about each one. It’s rare these days, that Cheers-like environment where everybody knows each other.” 

Some customers became like family. “I was feeding the fourth generation of some families,” he said. “I’ve seen people through loss, through celebrations. It became a ministry of sorts, taking people under my wing.” 

Cunningham’s warmth became a signature part of the Johnnie’s experience. “People always mentioned my smile,” he said. “I just tried to make everyone feel at home.” 

He laughs when asked if he’s tired of burgers. “Not at all. My favorite’s the #9, Theta with cheese. And nobody beats our onion rings. As for pie, I tell myself banana counts as fruit, but chocolate’s the top seller.” 

Cunningham says that retirement feels a bit strange, but he plans to stay busy. He’s active in his church and hopes to spend his newly free time volunteering. “It’s a little scary stepping away, but I’ve been very blessed. I’ve got a wife, two kids, and a great life,” he said, attributing much of his personal success to his professional path with Johnnie’s. 

So what’s the secret sauce? “Family,” Cunningham said simply. “Johnnie’s sons took me in and made me part of theirs. That family relationship extends to our customers, too. We take care of each other. That’s what kept me here all these years, and I am grateful that I can still be a part of that family, off the clock.”