10/23/2025
Every time we met Danny, he had a smile that could light up the room and an attitude that made everything feel better. His warmth and positivity left a lasting impression on everyone around him. Danny will be deeply missed, but his good spirit and kindness will always be remembered.
The devastating news of former Gainesville City Councilman Danny Dunagan's passing has been nothing short of deafening … challenging to comprehend and impossible to accept.
There simply aren't words to describe the heartbreak we feel for Mr. Dunagan's loved ones. We shared in Danny's optimism despite his grim cancer diagnosis – after all, he had so much love left to give the City of Gainesville, Georgia.
"Danny was a true champion of Gainesville," said Gainesville City Manager Bryan Lackey. "His fingerprints are everywhere in our town. Many current and future Gainesvillians will enjoy for many years the shade of the trees he planted."
We thank Mr. Dunagan and his family for the nearly 30 years he devoted to the City in various capacities, but most notably as Gainesville's first elected mayor (2014-21) and longtime Ward 1 councilmember (2006-13, 2022-25).
As we've stated before, Danny helped guide us in our shared pursuit of greatness. He was a steadfast supporter of collaboration, innovation and inclusivity; and a rare example of benevolence, authenticity and servantship. Mr. Dunagan absolutely was and will forever be community personified.
Please keep the Dunagans in your thoughts and prayers as they navigate the challenging weeks and months ahead. We are so very sorry for your loss.
Danny, we love you.
