The resolution honors the life and contributions of G. Ernest Cunningham, a former Speaker of the Arkansas House of Representatives, who passed away on June 11, 2024, at the age of eighty-seven. Born in Barton, Arkansas, Cunningham graduated from the University of Arkansas with a degree in accounting and later worked at Cunningham, Inc. alongside his family. He served in the Arkansas House of Representatives from 1969 to 1999, representing Helena-West Helena and parts of eastern Arkansas. After his legislative career, he worked as a lobbyist for various organizations, including the Arkansas Health Care Association and Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.

Cunningham was dedicated to improving the quality of life in his community, playing a key role in the development of several local initiatives, such as the Helena-West Helena-Phillips County Port Authority and the Delta Cultural Center. He received numerous accolades for his service, including induction into the Arkansas Tourism Hall of Fame and recognition as the Phillips County Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year. The resolution expresses condolences to his family, including his wife Cathy, two sons, and five grandchildren, and commends his significant contributions to the state of Arkansas.