Rosemary Cunningham

Rosemary Thomas Cunningham, 67, passed away peacefully at home in Atlanta, GA, on April 3, 2025.

Rosemary was born on October 8, 1957, in the Bronx, NY, and carried the vibrancy of the city with her throughout her life. After graduating from Cardinal Spellman High School in 1975, Rosemary studied Mathematics/Economics at Fordham University, graduating summa cum laude in 1979. She later earned her PhD in Economics from Fordham University, where she met Tom Cunningham while they were both completing their doctorates. The two fell in love, married in 1983, and soon moved to Atlanta, where they built a life together and started a family-their greatest joy. They shared 37 amazing years of marriage until Tom's passing, a love filled with deep partnership, laughter, and unwavering support.

Rosemary began her career at W.R. Grace & Co. and taught economics at Fairfield University before joining Agnes Scott College, where she spent 39 years as a dedicated professor of economics. A passionate educator, she not only influenced countless students in the classroom but also led student trips to China, Hong Kong, New York, and Iceland, broadening students' perspectives and sparking their curiosity about the world. She retired in June 2024 as the Hal and Julia T. Smith Professor of Free Enterprise, leaving behind a profound impact on the Agnes Scott community.

In retirement, Rosemary embraced life fully, cherishing every moment with family. She spent her days taking her grandchildren, Liam and Lottie, to activities around Atlanta, traveling with her daughter, Sara, and playing golf. In recent years, she shared her life with Robert Newsome, who brought her joy and companionship.

Rosemary was predeceased by her husband, Tom Cunningham; her parents, John Thomas and Ann Thomas; and her brother, Christopher Thomas. Rosemary leaves her children, Ian Cunningham and Sara Cunningham, daughter-in-law, Marlissa, and grandchildren Liam and Charlotte (Lottie).

A memorial service will be held on Monday, April 14, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. in the Julia Thompson Smith Chapel at Agnes Scott College, with a reception to follow.

Those wishing to honor Rosemary can make a donation in her memory to the Student Emergency Fund at Agnes Scott College or Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University.