At Memorial, AZ Lawmaker Cunningham Honored for Sharp Financial Insight and Witty Charm

Former state lawmaker George Cunningham, who also served as an aide to two Democratic governors and held a vice presidential position at the University of Arizona, was honored at a memorial service on Monday. The gathering celebrated his legacy as a budget expert, policy advocate, and devoted family man. Cunningham passed away on May 6 due to a cardiac episode at the age of 80.

Governor Katie Hobbs praised Cunningham’s profound understanding of budgeting that significantly benefitted the state during his time with former governors Janet Napolitano and Rose Mofford. “He was a great man,” Hobbs remarked, affirming that his public service contributions will resonate for years to come.

The service attracted over 400 attendees at the Jewish Community Center, including notable figures such as U.S. Representative Juan Ciscomani and former Congress members Gabby Giffords and Ron Barber. Tucson Mayor Regina Romero and several state lawmakers were also present. Ciscomani commended Cunningham as a respected community member devoted to improving the lives of others. “He worked across the aisle to get things done,” he stated, underscoring Cunningham’s bipartisan efforts.

Born in Nashua, New Hampshire, in 1945, Cunningham moved to Tucson at age 11. His early life included attending Catalina High School before enrolling at the University of Arizona, where he met his future wife, Marjorie. Their son, Tucson City Councilman Paul Cunningham, humorously noted that once George met Marjorie, “he didn’t stand a chance.”

Cunningham’s political career began as a staffer in the Arizona Senate. After Rose Mofford became governor in 1988, she appointed him as her chief of staff. He later won a seat in the Arizona House of Representatives in 1992 and transitioned to the Arizona Senate in 1996. Following Janet Napolitano’s election in 2002, Cunningham returned to the governor’s office.

David Jankofsky, a longtime friend, delivered an emotional eulogy, calling Cunningham “a brilliant technician with great political insights.” He highlighted Cunningham’s influence on initiatives like the Grand Canyon Institute, the Independent Redistricting Commission, and the Arizona Legislature’s internship program. Jankofsky recalled an anecdote about their late-night drives to Phoenix for budget negotiations, illustrating Cunningham’s dedication and work ethic.

Cunningham’s daughter, Eve, shared heartfelt memories, describing her father’s humor and charm. She recounted family trips to Arizona National Parks and the joy he found in nurturing relationships. The family property affectionately dubbed “The Yard,” served as a gathering place for friends, reflecting Cunningham’s love for camaraderie. Eve also noted her father’s decision to decline a position at Homeland Security to be present for family milestones. “Dad, thank you for the gifts, humor, scrappiness, grit, wisdom, and love,” she expressed, emphasizing the enduring legacy he leaves behind.