Former Delaware Senator and Vietnam Vet George Bunting Dies at 81

Bunting, a decorated Marine and longtime state legislator, will be honored with a funeral and military service in Ocean View.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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George H. Bunting Jr., a former Delaware state representative and senator who served in the Vietnam War and owned a State Farm insurance agency in Rehoboth Beach for over 40 years, has died at the age of 81. Bunting's funeral and interment with military honors will be held on February 21 in Ocean View.

Why it matters

Bunting was a well-liked and respected figure in Delaware politics, known for his bipartisanship and commitment to serving his community. His passing marks the end of an era for southern Delaware, where he was instrumental in numerous infrastructure and environmental projects over his decades-long career.

The details

Bunting, a Democrat, served as a state representative in the 1980s and 1990s and in the state Senate from 1996 to 2013. He was a decorated Vietnam War veteran, awarded both the Purple Heart and Bronze Star for his actions during combat. After returning from Vietnam, Bunting opened a State Farm insurance agency in Rehoboth Beach and became president of the local Chamber of Commerce.

  • Bunting died at home on February 12, 2026.
  • Bunting's viewing and funeral will be held on February 21, 2026 at Mariner's Bethel Global Methodist Church in Ocean View.
  • Bunting will be interred with military honors provided by the Ocean View Mason-Dixon VFW Post 7234 on February 21, 2026 at Prince George's Chapel Cemetery in Dagsboro.

The players

George H. Bunting Jr.

A former Delaware state representative and senator who served in the Vietnam War and owned a State Farm insurance agency in Rehoboth Beach for over 40 years.

Gerald Hocker

A Republican state senator who succeeded Bunting in the Delaware Senate.

Russell McCabe

The former director of the Delaware State Archives, who described Bunting as a "true gentleman of the old-fashioned sort."

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What they’re saying

“He was a true gentleman of the old-fashioned sort, who always displayed dignity and grace.”

— Russell McCabe, Former Delaware State Archives Director (delawareonline.com)

“I can't say enough good about Sen. Bunting. I haven't worked with anybody better than him.”

— Gerald Hocker, Republican State Senator (delawareonline.com)

What’s next

Bunting will be interred with military honors provided by the Ocean View Mason-Dixon VFW Post 7234 on February 21, 2026.

The takeaway

Bunting's passing marks the end of an era in Delaware politics, where he was known for his bipartisanship, commitment to public service, and instrumental role in numerous infrastructure and environmental projects in southern Delaware over his decades-long career.