James J. Dunnigan Jr.

Dunnigan, James J. Jr.
79 of Phoenix, AZ, passed away on August, 22, 2016. Originally from Bronx, NY, James, Jimmy, or Uncle Jimmy, as he was known to friends and family, led a full life - one complete with a diverse group of supportive friends and family. He was a creative, intelligent, and charismatic gentleman who maintained a deep passion for sports (particularly baseball and harness racing) a love for beauty, an exceptional way of connecting with young people and a talent for journalism. After graduating from Notre Dame University, he became a racetrack executive, working in a variety of executive capacities at racetracks throughout the country, before shifting his career focus to Public Relations in baseball. During his Public Relations career, he spent a number of years employed by the New York Yankees and the late George Steinbrenner. Jimmy embraced the power and value of Alcoholics Anonymous. His struggle to maintain sobriety lasted much of his life and he, like so many, defined himself as a recovering alcoholic during the frequent periods of sobriety throughout his lifetime. Jimmy is survived by his brother Edward Dunnigan, his sister in law, Suk Ja Dunnigan and his former sister in law, Susan Dunnigan as well as 3 nieces, 3 nephews and a lifetime of friends and acquaintances. Visitation will be held on Friday, September 2, 2016 at 10 a.m., with a funeral service to follow at 11 a.m. at Messenger Mortuary at 7601 East Indian School Road in Scottsdale. Burial to follow at St Francis Cemetery 2033 N 48th St, Phoenix, AZ 85008. Contributions may be made to Hospice of the Valley, 1510 East Flower St. Phoenix. Arrangements entrusted to Messinger Mortuary.