George J Cunningham

George J. Cunningham was born in Brooklyn New York on February 22, 1934, on George Washington’s birthday (his namesake) and departed us on November 22, 2021 at home while surrounded by his family and holding his wife’s hand. He was born to Katie and James Cunningham and was the youngest child of a very large family (May, Margaret, Jim, John, Michael, Ann “Sis”, Agnes, Joseph, Rosemary, Catherine, Billy, Charlie) and all were raised in a three-bedroom home on East 52nd Street. He is survived by his wife and the love of his life, Dolores Jean Reidy. They shared true love for over 60 wonderful years. He was a loving father to his four children, Daughter Jean Cunningham (James Gallagher), Son George (pre-deceased), Daughter Theresa Faughnan (Gregory) and Son Michael (Janice). He was a devoted grandfather to Daniel, Sean, Brian, Baby Katie (deceased), Kevin and James. He was a wonderful uncle to many treasured nieces and nephews.

George and Dolores raised their family in Brooklyn, buying their first home on East 31st Street in St. Jerome’s parish in Flatbush and then on East 51st Street in Mary Queen of Heaven Parish in Flatlands, right near their own childhood homes. In retirement they moved to East Meadow Long Island so they could be close to their children and grandchildren. Together they enjoyed traveling to their little piece of paradise in Marco Island Florida as much as possible.

George was a US Army veteran, serving in the years following WW II as a Radioman in Germany. A skill he learned while attending George Westinghouse Vocational High School back in Brooklyn. He was particularly proud of his unofficially adopted nephew and fellow Army Soldier Christopher an active-duty Army member.

He was a dedicated New York City Firefighter and being a member of the FDNY was his true calling in life.  He served with passion having earned several awards for his life saving actions. His firehouse, Engine Company 323 in Brooklyn was his second home and they FDNY was his second family. Even in retirement he was rarely seen without an FDNY cap on his head or donning an FDNY T-shirt.

George was a Loving Husband, Son, Brother, Devoted Father and Godfather, Dear Brother-in-Law, Uncle, Neighbor and Friend. He maintained a deep devotion to his Catholic Faith throughout life and all that knew him loved his generous and kind heart and his willingness to always lend a helping hand. He especially enjoyed being regarded as a second father and good buddy to the many who affectionately called him “Mr. C”.