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Robert Leander "Bobby" Hunt Sr.

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East Carolina University

Robert Hunt Obituary

Robert Leander "Bobby" Hunt Sr.

WINSTON-SALEM - Robert Leander "Bobby" Hunt Sr. passed away peacefully to join and direct the heavenly choir on Wednesday morning, July 23, 2008, at Forsyth Medical Center after an extended period of illness.

He was born Tuesday, Nov. 6, 1934, to Jarvis Sylvester and Bessie Barker Hunt in Winston-Salem. Bobby attended the local public schools and upon graduation from high school, entered the U.S. Navy. After his discharge, Bobby enrolled in Winston-Salem Teachers College (now WSSU) and received a BA degree in Elementary Education with a minor in Music. He also did further study and received a BA degree in music from East Carolina University, Green-ville.

Upon graduation, Bobby became employed with the Robeson County School System, teaching fifth grade and music. He later became employed with the Rowan County Schools teaching music and chorus at Dunbar High School, East Spencer. After observing Bobby's expertise with marching and concert bands, he was called to serve as band director at Anderson High School (home of the Bulldogs).

In 1970, during the desegregation of schools in the city, Bobby was appointed band director of the Parkland Mustangs and also taught music at Philo and Griffith Middle schools. He retired from the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County School System in 1989.

Spiritually, Bobby was a dedicated member of St. Paul United Methodist Church, where he served as senior choir director for several years. Bobby also served as choir director/pianist of the Inspiration Choir since its inception, of which he became a role model for each choir member. Bobby loved his pastor and church family.

Bobby was predeceased by his parents and two brothers, Richard and Bronal Lewis Hunt.

Most memorable and cherished memories will be held in the hearts of his wife of 51 years, Doris D. Hunt; children Sheilah H. Conner and Darla H. Woodruff (Michael) of Winston-Salem and Robert L. Hunt II (Veronica) of Bowie, Md.; a sister, Jacquelyn H. Nunn of the city, and a brother, William R. Hunt of Hartford, Conn.; five beautiful grandchildren, whom he adored and served as caregivers, Arien J. Conner, Mariell D. Conner, Jonathon L. and Justin D. Woodruff of Winston-Salem and Jontil B. Hunt of Bowie, Md.; sister-in-law Hazel Hunt of Atlanta, Ga.; brother-in-law Alford L. Davis (Doris); son-in-law William B. Conner of the city; devoted friends Natalie and Trey Young and Timothy Davis; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

Service: Funeral services will be conducted at 12 Noon Saturday, July 26 at Saint Paul United Methodist Church with Rev. Donald Jenkins officiating. Interment will follow in Piedmont Memorial Gardens.

Visitation: The family visitation will be held from 11 a.m.-12 Noon Saturday at the Church.

Online condolences can be made at www.russellfuneralservice.com

The family wishes to extend thanks to the staff and nurses of Forsyth Medical Center for the care given to our loved one.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Salisbury Post from Jul. 25 to Jul. 26, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for Robert Hunt

Sponsored by Larry Brian Binns, Student and Mentee.

45 Entries

Natalie Young

November 8, 2017

Wishing you a Happy Birthday in Heaven. Miss you Pops.

Arien Conner

December 9, 2009

Just online browzing. To Larry Binns, Thank you so much for keeping my grandfathers guestbook active. And thank you for the pictures you have added. Of course I wasn't thought of when 2 of these picture were taken but it very cool to see younger pictures of granddaddy doing what he loved.

Darla Hunt Woodruff

July 23, 2009

One year ago today, my Dad left me. The last sounds from him I still hear and I still hear the pain in my Mom's voice when she made that fateful call to me. I guess my pain and those sounds will never goes away, it stays right there below the surface. Jesus was with him that night like so many others. I believe he knew he was going home. I am and will always be "his baby."

Justin Woodruff

December 8, 2008

At first I wished for him to be back with us. But I knew that he would only be going to the pain that he had been going through. I just want to be called "His Boy" again. I know he is in a better place now and there is no more pain.

I am one of his grandchildren.

Sandy Brown

August 26, 2008

1: But the souls of the righteous are in the hand of God, and no torment will ever touch them. 2: In the eyes of the foolish they seemed to have died, and their departure was thought to be a disaster, 3: And their going from us to be their destruction: but they are at peace. 4: For though in the sight of others they were punished, their hope is full of immortality. 5: Having been disciplined a little, they will receive great good: for God tested them, and found them worthy of himself;
6: Like gold in the furnace he tried them, and like a sacrificial burnt offering he accepted them. 7: In the time of their visitation they shall shine forth, and will run like sparks through the stubble. 8: They will govern nations, and rule over peoples, and the Lord will reign over them forever. 9: Those who trust in him will understand truth,and the faithful will abide with him in love, because grace and mercy are upon his holy ones, and he watches over his elect. (The Wisdom of Solomon 3:1-9 from the Books of the Apocrypha)
To the Hunt Family,
To God be the Glory! Mr. Hunt is finally at peace. I was unaware that he had passed, and am kind of sad that I wasn't there personally. But please be comforted knowing that he was loved. I love you and I loved Mr. Hunt.

Blessings,
Sandy Brown

Cleora Price Mitchell

August 20, 2008

I extend deepest sympathies to the Hunt family. My first remembrance of Mr. Hunt was His arrival at Anderson High School. He literally leaped over a piano, chasing two hard headed guys in band class. I had never seen an adult do that before and he definitely had my attention. Thanks to Mr. Hunt, Dr. Shepherd and Dr. Tanner, I went on to major in music at WSSU. Mr Hunt was always an encourager. I played in the band along with Sheila. God bless you during this time.

Arien J. Conner

August 20, 2008

Words can't express the way I have been feeling. It seems so surreal. All I want is the see you again. Hear you say "HEY BABY!". I know that you are in a better place and I don't have to worry because you are in God"s hands. I don't have to worry anymore because I know God is taking good care of you. You are the best grandfather anyone could ask for. I was truely blessed to have you in my life for exactly 23yrs and 2mos. Though you will always be in my heart, I will miss you dearly. I Love You Granddaddy :-D

Dawn Poole Lovern

August 10, 2008

I am a '78 Parkland graduate and one of "Mr Hunt's kids." I remember with fondness band class with my Hunt. As sad as I was in seeing that he had passed; when I think of him, I still have to smile. In my mind's eye, I can still see him in front of our class virtually dancing out the rhythm of the song to make sure we could "get it" - and then bouncing to face one section and then another to make sure they either came in on time or shined during a special part.
Mr Hunt was the epitome of enthusiasm, and he used that to encourage us to a higher level - a level of greater accomplishment where we could know a sense of accomplishment and a job well done. There was so much happiness in that band room and anywhere Mr. Hunt took us. Band was the one class that was a bright spot always...and with all that joy, you had to love Mr. Hunt. Even people who didn't take band knew and loved Mr. Hunt.

I saw him in the store a couple years ago. We recognized each other immediately. He called me by named and told me what instrument I played. All those kids...all those instruments...and I still mattered after 30+ years. That speaks to the character of this man.

May God comfort you, the family and closest friends of Mr Hunt. Know that he invested his life in the lives of others so his investment will return ten thousand times ten thousand.

William Doby

August 9, 2008

We all loved him.
Mr. Hunt has my highest respect and admiration. He truly know how to handle a bunch of hard heads like myself. A truly great person.

Alphonzo Allen

August 9, 2008

I was so sad to hear of Mr. Hunt's passing. He was definitely a positive force in so many people's lives whether one endeavored into music or other disciplines. Mr. Hunt's support and direction was always affirmative. He taught me an appreciation of the arts that has stayed with me for a lifetime. He will be missed!

Patsy Hicks Chrysson

August 9, 2008

Mr. Hunt (as I still think of him) was my band teacher at Parkland High School from 1973 to 1975. My father retired from the USAF so I started as a new student in a new town in Nov. 1973. Mr. Hunt made me feel very welcome immediately and made me feel part of the group. He was a wonderful band teacher and taught us songs that we liked to play as well as the audience liked to hear but he was also a wonderful person and always had time to talk to anyone who needed his advice. I've thought of him many times over the years with fondness.

Milton (Mickey) Bitting

August 9, 2008

Bobby, sorry to here about your dad's passing.Sorry I haven't stayed in touch with you.The music your dad had us practice, help me prepare myself for that fast pace college marching!I just want to say to you and your family,stay strong;he is marching to the best music ever written!

Evette

August 9, 2008

Mrs Hunt & FAMILY iM SORRY FOR YOUR LOST. At this time I didnt know. you two were a great inspiration to me .Especially you loving caring woman also very wise indeed we went thru good and hard times together twill never forget you or Mr hunt as my music teacher also. I hope everyone is doing telltale Care I will visit you soon . Love Everyone.

Donna Suttles Waldo

August 9, 2008

Thanks for being such a great band teacher and role model. You made high school great.

Undrae Hayes

August 9, 2008

To the Hunt Family, Mr. Hunt will be graciously missed. I knew him at Parkland Sr. High School where I was a member of the marching band. He was stern, but gentle, never judged you or belittled anyone, he just wanted you to give 100% to his 110%. All I have is fond memories of him and will cherish those forever. He will be greatly missed.

Vickie Nelson

August 9, 2008

"Daddy Hunt" Was not only our teacher, band director and friend. He was a role model and our dad. He made Parkland Senior High School and the band experience a delight! To Darla & the family, Only God has all power in his hands. Even though we cannot always see and understand he said "have faith and believe in my word, leave everything up to me". May the love of God fill your hearts with peace and comfort while bereaving the lost of our dear love one. Respectfully submitted, Vickie Nelson Parkland High school Class of 1981

Kathy Denise Matthews

August 9, 2008

I WOULD LIKE TO SAY WITH SADNESS HE WILL BE MISSED AND HE IS DIRECTING THE HEAVENS CHOIR AND OH! WHAT A FINE MAN HE WAS THE BEST TEACHER AND BAND DIRECTOR HE ALWAYS MADE IT FUN AND INTERESTING AND HE WAS LIKE OUR SECOND FATHER. HE WAS THE BEST BAND DIRECTOR THAT PARKLAND HIGH SCHOOL EVER HAD AND THERE WILL BE NO OTHER LIKE HIM. I AM SORRY FOR THE FAMILY FOR THE LOSS OF THERE HUSBAND, FATHER AND GRANDFATHER. YOU CAN REST ASSURED HE IS IN HEAVEN WITH A SONG IN HIS HEART. GOD BLESS YOU

My Favorite Teacher and 2nd Father! -Larry B. Binns

August 9, 2008

Mr. Hunt (R) and other teachers at Anderson High in 1969

August 9, 2008

Larry Brian Binns (http://larrybrianbinns.com)

Larry Binns

August 8, 2008

I wish to express my deepest condolences and respects to Mrs. Hunt and the entire Hunt family for their loss. However, on this occasion I feel it is especially appropriate that we celebrate and memorialize the enduring legacy that remains, which is exemplified through the hundreds or perhaps thousands of students and others that he touched.

I vividly recall how at age 15 I requested assistance and was taught the rudiments and fundamentals of music composition and orchestration by Mr. Hunt, my band director, friend, and mentor at Anderson High. We arrived at Anderson the same year, September 1967. I cultivated a deep love for composing during the three years when I spent many memorable hours assisting Mr. Hunt with the scoring and arranging for the school's "Fall Festival" and "Talent Show". It was on Mr. Hunt's suggestion and insistence that I along with three other band members attended the summer music institute at A&T University during the summer of 1968. Like so many of his other students at Anderson, Mr. Hunt's influence and direction left an indelible impression of enduring significance during those crucial and vital phases of my life, something I account as a debt too precious to ever possibly repay. For not only did he instill the love for composition in my heart, but he also paved the way for me to be introduced to the love of my life, my wife of 36 years, Marcia, whom I met at A&T that summer.

After three years of instruction in music theory and private composition lessons at no charge at his home, after marching, jazz, or concert band rehearsals, I was devastated when desegregation requirements abruptly removed this beloved teacher from Anderson. I remember Mr. Hunt instructing me that as president of the band it would be my responsibility to assist the new music teacher to become acclimated to his new assignment. I was very reluctant to do so but obeyed despite my reservations and hostility.

My listening to him enabled me to forge a bond with the new band director from Parkland who was a tuba instructor at the North Carolina School of the Arts (NCSA). Mr. Hunt had informed the new director that I was composing orchestral music and that he had given me a key to the band room so that I could have solitude to compose during the weekends. The new director informed me that I could continue this practice and asked to review some of my compositions. Unknown to me, after looking over my works and discussing them with Mr. Hunt, he showed my compositions to the Dean of the School of Music at NCSA who requested an interview me. After several interviews and a very high recommendation letter from Mr. Hunt I was accepted as a high school composition major and student of composer and Dean of Music at NCSA, Dr. Louis Mennini. A year later I was also accepted into the college division as a composition student of NCSA President and first Chancellor, Pulitzer Prize composer, Robert Ward. I was also reunited with my wife who was in her third year as an operatic voice student at NCSA. All credit goes to Robert L. Hunt’s excellent training and preparation.

Mr. Hunt was a tremendously gifted arranger and could have been a wonderful composer if he had chosen that path. I am grateful that he decided to teach and that I was privileged to be one of his students. I last spent some time with him in 2006 when my wife and I visited for a few hours at his home. He had written a letter of recommendation for me to Indiana University’s Jacobs School of Music where again I was accepted into their graduate program and where I earned my masters in music. I use many of his methods in teaching my own composition and songwriting students. I am a 2nd year PhD student and I plan on continuing his tradition in teaching music and mentoring aspiring artists. I thank Doris and the children for sharing their home, car, food, and especially their husband and father from the depths of my heart.

Mr.Hunt conducting Anderson High Jazz Band in 1969 "Talent Show"

August 8, 2008

Kathy Parks Woodard

August 1, 2008

We are sorry for your loss. I attended Anderson when Mr. Hunt was band teacher there. Though I never had band, he did have to stop me a time or two to keep me from getting into further trouble. He was very patient with us students most of the time. My husband and I moved across the street from him about 7 years ago and I was surprised when I saw him out on the porch one day. I immediately went over to speak to him. He was still the same patient man. God's blessings to you!

Dianne McIlwaine-Butler

July 31, 2008

My sincere sympathy and prayers go out to your family. I attended Dunbar High (East Spencer, NC) '65 & '66 and had the privilege of being in Mr. Hunt's choir. He was a dedicated teacher who not only cared for us as students, but advised us as young people. He touched many lives and I know he is in heaven, conducting a choir and leading a band! He was one of a kind and will be missed.

mike carpenter

July 30, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with the Hunt family. Mr. Hunt was my band teacher at Parkland, class 72, I have very fond memories of him. The world is at a loss, but Heaven is that much richer.

Sharon Fletcher

July 29, 2008

Please accept my deepest sympathy at this difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with each of you. Mr. Hunt was a wonderful man and teacher. He was my band teacher at Griffith Elementary and Parkland Sr. High School (Class of "77). What a talented and patient man who was truly called to work with children and young adults. Our loss on Earth is Heaven's gain!
Sharon White Fletcher

Marvin Wall

July 28, 2008

To the Family, I was so saddened and hurt to read about the loss of Mr. Hunt.I did see him a couple of years ago when I was downtown. I'm so thankful that I got a chance to tell him that he was my favorite teacher through all my years of school. I was one of his drummers in high school at Parkland.(75-77) I will nerver forget him. My prayers are with the family.

Peggy Bitting-Hale

July 28, 2008

Mr Hunt was our Band Teacher at Parkland High School, (Class of '78) and my brother was one of his "Drum Line Class of 76). We learned so much from him, even though I wasn't an instrument playing member, I was one of the flag team. he taught us much about formations and "stepping to the music" I know that he continues to lead the "marching angels in heaven. My prayers go out to his wife, Bobby and Ronnie, and the rest of his family. I pray that his legacy will continue.

Monticello Mitchell

July 26, 2008

Mr. Hunt was my chorus teacher at Parkland Sr. Highschool. I know he will be missed. My prayers are with his family.
Class of 1977

John Blakeney

July 26, 2008

My most sincere heart felt sympathy to the Hunt family on the lost of your love one. My class of 1967 ,Dunbar high school East Spencer N.C ,was the year we voted him "Teacher of the year". Mr Hunt was an inspiration .He made us feel proud to be in the band and choir. His dedication to music and life will be missed. A great man who memory , I will keep close to my heart. Rest in peace Mr Hunt.

Karen Harvell

July 26, 2008

To the Hunt Family, I am sorry to hear about your dad and my former band teacher. He was a kind and gentle man. He was respected by all students. He enouraged students to do their best, as he gave his best. We will all miss him. A former student of Parkland 1976.

Rev. Bevely W. McMillian

July 26, 2008

To the family , may he live on in your hearts and minds each day. Physically he is not here but in a better place of no more pain and suffering. To his wife, children, sister my play mom(Jackie Nunn), nieces and nephews; God will take care of you. Miss him but let him go. He is playing for the heavenly choir now.

Mildred Searcy

July 25, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

John Foltz

July 25, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with all the members of the Hunt family. Mr Hunt taught me band at Griffith Jr. High school and at Parkland Sr High. As a member of the 1973-75 Marching Mustangs we were honored to play for the dedication of the Forsyth County Hall of Justice and for President Gerald Ford at the Greensboro Airport during his visit to the Triad. He was a great director and teacher and will be missed by all. John S. Foltz, Class of '75, Parkland Senior High School.

Helen Horton

July 25, 2008

Doris and family, I was so sorry to hear of your loss. Doris, you know that I know the loss and emptiness you feel. While today, you may feel that this pain will never go away, it will lessen; however, the memory of Bobby will be with you always. Please know that I am here if you need me or just need someone to talk to. We will miss seeing Bobby driving around in his truck or taking a stroll in the neighborhood. God Bless you, the children and the grands!

Gwendolyn Hayes-Love

July 25, 2008

To the family friends and loved ones of Mr. Robert L. Hunt: Peace and Christ Be With You. God's Garden Must Be Beautiful! Mr. Hunt is sleeping in the arms of Jesus now. I thank God for the many hearts Mr. Hunt touched and will continue to touch as he will live on in our hearts and our minds. May God release His comforting Angels during this time to each and everyone of you.

Cre Sechrist Parkland 80-82

July 25, 2008

Hunt Family,
I was one of the hundreds of students who Mr. Hunt impacted by his knowledge, humor and love of music. Not only did we learn alot, we preformed our well-rehearsed music great and loved every minute of it! Please know how many lives he touched and you are in our prayers at this difficult time.

Estelle Tunley

July 25, 2008

To the Hunt Family, I offer my sincere condolences. Although I do not know most of the family, I consider myself a good friend of Bobby II and his wife and daughter. I never met Bobby Sr., but I saw the fruit of the man and woman who brought my friend into this world. I have had few true friendships in this world that I knew I could always count on and was assured that in the good times and bad times my friend would be there. I thank God for Bobby Sr.and the legacy that he leaves and the fruit of his labor in his family and his community. God bless each of you and keep you in His loving care.

Christie Landrum

July 25, 2008

I was very sadden to hear from my Mom & Dad that the man I loved as a second father had passed. I have known him all my life right from birth because he and Doris are very close to my family. We the kids grew up together. I played in the different bands that he directed and learned a lot with that clarinet. I loved him very much and he was a great mentor to me always giving me encouragement as I was becoming an adult. Every now and then I would hear that little voice. I will always remember him for the rest of my life and he will be greatly missed by everyone he came in contact with, especially the kids in the schools. I say to auntie Doris, Tan, Bobby Jr., Darla and all other relatives God will take care of your all. My prayers are with all of you during this time. Love, Christie D. Landrum

Carolyn Witherspoon Paige

July 25, 2008

To the Hunt Family – I was deeply saddened when I heard about Mr. Hunt’s passing. He was a great inspiration to us. My brother Jimmy (Razor) Witherspoon and myself were proud members of the Dunbar High School Marching Tigers under the direction of Mr. Hunt. He brought an extraordinary energy and excitement to Dunbar and the East Spencer, North Carolina community. He acknowledged and recognized our gifts and talents, and I am forever grateful for that. Please accept my heartfelt sympathies and know that my thoughts and prayers are with you.

Berlinda Little

July 25, 2008

Rest in Peace Mr Hunt. I had the joy of being one of Mr. Hunt's students in the early 80's at Parkland High School, and Mr. Hunt was one of our mentors. He was a very nice and understanding teacher who would praise you when you were right, and discipline you when you were wrong. Mr. Hunt was our father away from home. I was a cheerleader ,and marching in Mr. Hunt's band made us think that we were the junior WSSU band of the county. There are a lot of warm memories of Mr. Hunt, but the Lord has more work for him to do in the chior and band in heaven. To the family I say look up because the Lord has it all in control. Be blessed!

Valerie Simpson

July 25, 2008

To the Hunt Family, I am truely sorry for your loss. I have known Mr. Hunt a very long time, he was a father figure to me. I sing in the inspiriational choir under his direction and boy did we have a great time. There were some days we really ticked him off but we always worked it out for 2 and 4 Sundays that we sing. Just remember his body may not be here but his spirit and memories are always with you. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers always. Keep your heads up high and know that God is with you and He will comfort and strengthen you. God Bless you all. Love always, Valerie Simpson and children.

Jeff Francis

July 25, 2008

As a member of Mr. Hunt's band at Parkland from 1979-1981, I have to say that those were the most enjoyable years that I had. Mr. Hunt was always full of energy and peep. With his knowledge of music, he created a sound of music that lives on. I for one will never forget him. He will be greatly missed.
For the Family, I am truely sorry for the passing of this great man. He is and will always be an inspiration to us all.
My prayers go with you..

Ramona Jackson

July 25, 2008

I'm a 1979 Parkland graduate and I remember Mr. Hunt so very well. He was the best music teacher in Forsyth County.Everybody loved Mr. Hunt. May God bless you all and give you strength in your time of bereavement. Mr. Hunt will be dearly missed.

Barbara White Meadows

July 25, 2008

Dear Hunt Family,
Mr. Hunt was my band and marching band teacher at Parkland High School
72-74. He was loved and respected by all of us and will be missed even after all these years, he is fondly remember and thought of alot.
May God Bless All of you, heaven has gained another angel.
Respectfully,
Barbara White Meadows
Class of 74
PHS

Thaddeus Rice

July 25, 2008

To the Hunt Family: I've often heard that there is a special place beyond space and time. Therefore, Bobby has found that niche. May the family find solace in the fact that your loved one has found comfort and relief. You have my humble blessings and may you always cherish Bobbys' talents and strengths.

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