Dear Editor:
These are the words of reverence that are uttered by the people of England when their monarch dies and a new king ascends the throne. Since the Middle Ages, the English populace has been most solemn in this warm custom and long time tradition. Their deep seeded respect and loving affection for “the Royals” transcends their own lives and borders on deity worship.
Paraphrasing these words, on the death of the Honorable Glenn D. Cunningham, we can say, “The Mayor is dead! Long live his memory…and legacy!” And what a magnificent memory we have of him. And the rich legacy Glenn D. Cunningham left us.
The residents of Jersey City lost their hero and champion when Mayor and State Senator Glenn D. Cunningham died of a massive heart attack. His sudden and tragic passing has left a void in Jersey City, Hudson County and the entire State of New Jersey. One that probably will never be filled.
A very extraordinary man of great character, who was one of the most charismatic men who ever held elective office in Hudson County, Glenn Cunningham never forgot his roots or pride in his rich heritage. He lived it fully every day of his life which was so dramatically cut short while in the prime of a brilliant political career. Although he walked with presidents, captains and kings, Glenn Cunningham always held people of all walks of life in high esteem and always encouraged them to be the best they could be. From humble beginnings, he rose to spectacular heights in a life filled with one success after another – serious student, proud Marine, dedicated police officer and Police Captain, conscientious Freeholder, concerned Councilman and caring Council President, committed Public Safety Director, first African-American United States Marshall for New Jersey, First African-American Mayor in the history of Jersey City and a solid State Senator. A man of courage and conviction, he discharged all his responsibilities with great enthusiasm and total commitment. Glenn Cunningham never did a half-baked job. It was always first class. That was his way. And, in his memory, we should emulate this outstanding trait he carried into all that he did, privately and publicly.
While he did not boast of his accomplishments and there were many, Glenn D. Cunningham was a noted historian and accomplished writer. And he enjoyed spending time with young students, as well as sharing moments with senior citizens who revered our late mayor as a son. To the students and other young people, Mayor Cunningham was their role model and they too revered our beloved late mayor. We will miss his smile. His laughter. His charm. His warm words of encouragement. His hale and heartiness. The joy and happiness he bought each of us. His leadership. His love.
Glenn D. Cunningham left each of us a legacy of which we forever can be proud. It would truly be a living legacy if his lovely wife and widow, Sandra Bolden-Cunningham, to whom we offer our most sincere sympathy, could be persuaded to take his place in public life. And carry the torch her courageous husband ignited. I urge the residents of Jersey City to join me in encouraging Mrs. Cunningham to seriously consider doing this.
As for myself, I was privileged and proud to have known our late great Mayor and State Senator for over 35 years. I saw him rise to the mountain top. A summit few rarely reach. And plant his flag of personal accomplishments which he did humbly but determinedly. Glenn D. Cunningham was the persona of a role model. A leader. A man’s man. His word was his bond. And when you bonded with Glenn D. Cunningham, you had a good friend forever.
Mayor/Senator Glenn D. Cunningham may be gone but he will never really leave us. His spirit will keep us focused and give us the fortitude and strength to persevere. As he did. Mayor Glenn D. Cunningham, we’re blessed for having crossed your path. Thank you.
Anthony L. Grazioso