The Lake County Forest Preserves is mourning the loss of Mary Ross Cunningham, a longtime member of the Board of Commissioners and dedicated advocate for Lake County residents.

Ross Cunningham served as a Forest Preserves commissioner from 2002 until her passing on Tuesday, June 23. During her 24 years of public service, she earned a reputation for her unwavering commitment to residents and her belief that government services should remain accessible and affordable for all.

She represented District 9, which includes portions of Waukegan and North Chicago. Ross Cunningham also served as vice chair of the Lake County Board, becoming the first Black woman to hold a leadership position on the board.

"Mary put her heart and soul into serving her constituents and she did so fiercely," said Jessica Vealitzek, president of the Forest Preserves. "They have lost a formidable advocate in Mary, and the Board has lost a dedicated member. She will be missed."

Among her many contributions to the Forest Preserves, Ross Cunningham chaired Gospelfest, a beloved annual celebration of music, culture and community at Greenbelt Cultural Center in North Chicago. One of her greatest passions, the event drew hundreds of attendees each year. Ross Cunningham was especially proud that the festival remained free to the public, ensuring everyone could gather to enjoy the music, fellowship and sense of community that defined the event.

She believed the Forest Preserves should be welcoming to everyone and worked to build connections between the preserves and communities. The Waukegan resident was a strong advocate for diversity and cultural awareness programming, believing the Forest Preserves should reflect and serve the many people who call Lake County home.

She chaired the Diversity and Cultural Awareness Committee and served on the Operations Committee during her tenure. She believed every resident should have opportunities to enjoy forest preserves, trails and open space, and worked to ensure those communities remained part of the Forest Preserves' long-term vision.

Ross Cunningham helped guide a period of significant growth for the Forest Preserves. During her tenure, protected land increased from 24,000 acres in 2002 to 31,906 acres in 2026. The Forest Preserves also expanded its trail network from 114 miles to 209 miles, improving access to nature and outdoor recreation throughout Lake County.

"Mary touched countless lives through her dedication, compassion and unwavering commitment to her work and the people she served," said Gina Roberts, vice president of the Forest Preserves. "Lake County has lost a remarkable public servant who cared deeply about her constituents and worked tirelessly on their behalf. She will be greatly missed, and her legacy of service will not be forgotten."

The Forest Preserves extends its deepest condolences to Ross Cunningham's family, friends and all who had the privilege of serving alongside her.

Back