Political Quotes

“I rise today in memory of the exceptional life of John Cunningham, a resident of Rye for nearly 60 years, who passed away last week at the age of 93. He was not only a familiar face around our community, but he was a familiar face on Broadway, on TV screens, and in movie theaters. John's acting career included roles too numerous to mention, but many are memorable to those anywhere in the Nation. He was the father in 'Mystic Pizza,' Mr. Anderson in 'Dead Poets Society,' and the character Sylvester Rheinback in the Christmastime movie 'Silver Bells.' He was on the Broadway stage as Captain E.J. Smith of the ship in 'Titanic' and as John Adams in '1776.' He had TV roles on '30 Rock,' 'Miami Vice,' 'Law and Order,' and 'The Good Wife,' among many others. His success as an actor notwithstanding, his role in the community was warm and friendly to all. Despite his status as a celebrity, he was approachable. He used his talents to help raise funds for local organizations, including dramatic readings with other actors, such as Frances Sternhagen, a New Rochelle resident, in the well-loved 'Players and Playwrights' series at the Rye High School Performing Arts Center. John and his wife, Carolyn, who served as a member of the Rye City Council, raised three children, all Rye High School graduates, with six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. John served in the U.S. Army and achieved a master's degree from Yale School of Drama.”