George Howard Bunting, Jr., a dedicated public servant and respected businessman who represented the Cape Region in the Delaware General Assembly for nearly three decades, passed away on February 12, 2026. A Marine veteran of the Vietnam War, Bunting was known for his humility, steady leadership, and profound commitment to his community. His passing marks the end of an era for Delaware politics, leaving behind a legacy of tireless advocacy and consensus-building.

Born in Salisbury, Maryland, on November 20, 1944, and raised in Frankford, Delaware, Bunting's early life instilled in him a strong sense of duty. He served with distinction in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War, earning both the Purple Heart and Bronze Star for his bravery. This experience profoundly shaped his perspective and fueled his later commitment to public service, particularly for fellow veterans.

After his military service and attending college, Bunting established a successful State Farm Insurance Agency in Rehoboth Beach in the 1970s, a business he operated until his retirement in 2024. His foray into politics began in 1983 when he was first elected to the Delaware House of Representatives. He served multiple terms in the House before successfully running for the Delaware State Senate in 1996, where he represented District 20 until his retirement in 2012.

Throughout his legislative career, Senator Bunting was a staunch advocate for southern Delaware and veterans' affairs. He played a pivotal role in the establishment of Delaware's two veterans' cemeteries and the Delaware Veterans Home in Smyrna. He was also a key leader in the long-term efforts to construct the new Indian River Inlet Bridge, a significant infrastructure project for the region. His colleagues and constituents remember him as a warm, caring, and extraordinarily generous individual who consistently sought common ground.

Bunting faced personal challenges with resilience, including a kidney transplant in 2008 followed by a heart attack, and the profound loss of his son, Christian, in 1990. Despite these hardships, he remained active and engaged in his community, continuing to champion causes important to him. He is survived by his wife of over 50 years, Donna, and their son Clinton, along with grandchildren Gray and Kenzie.