Robert Kenneth Hunter

1959 - 2025

RINGGOLD, Ga. - Robert Kenneth Hunter, fondly known as "Doodle" or "Kenny," passed away peacefully into his eternal resting place with Jesus Christ at MD Anderson Medical Center in Houston, TX on May 27, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was 66 years old.
Born on May 20, 1959, in Lancaster, S.C. and grew up in Kershaw, S.C. where he graduated from Andrew Jackson High School. He was a member of the football and baseball teams. Robert was the son of Sara Agnes Hunter and Robert Hunter.
Known as a humble and generous spirit from a young age, Robert grew up in a large household, rich in love alongside his siblings: Mary Young, Ronnie Hunter, Kay Horton, Larry Hunter, and Angie Faile.
Robert was preceded in death by his parents Robert and Sara Agnes Hunter, and siblings Ronnie, Kay, and Larry whose memories he cherished always.
Throughout his life, Robert believed in leading a life of simplicity where his actions spoke louder than his words and was defined by his deep sense of humility, honesty, integrity, gentleness, loyalty, and kindness. A peacemaker and a true man of few words, Robert resonated calm and sincerity to all who knew him. He was well loved not just for his gentle soul, generous heart, and quiet presence but for the colorful humorous hunting and fishing stories he often shared ¬– memories that will forever bring a smile to the faces of his friends and loved ones.
Robert was an accomplished professional, where he rose to the position of President and Owner of National Boiler Service where after 34 years he retired as CEO. Despite his impressive career achievements, nothing was more important to Robert than family. On each day of the 30 wonderful years shared with his beloved wife DeLaine, he demonstrated the meaning of unconditional love and devotion. Together, they nurtured three children: Savannah Hunter Garcia, Finn Hunter, and Rhett Hunter and one grandchild Auriah Hunter who will honor his legacy through lives of faith and integrity. An avid sports fan, Robert especially cheered on his Atlanta Braves, Clemson Tigers, golf, and Nascar. Fishing, boating, and hunting filled most of his leisure time, often bringing his friends and family together in joyous outdoor adventures. He was a member of Poplar Springs Baptist Church community.
He is survived by his wife, DeLaine; daughter Savannah (Pedro Garcia); sons Finn and Rhett and granddaughter Auriah; sisters Mary Young and Angie Faile (Roger); and countless beloved friends and extended family.
A Celebration of Robert's life will take place at Heritage Funeral Home – Ft. Oglethorpe, GA on Friday, June 6, from 5 to 7 p.m. and again on Saturday, June 7, from 10 to 11 a.m. A Celebration of Life Service will follow immediately after visitation on Saturday at 11 a.m. Robert's final resting place will be on his cherished family property in the Hunter Family Cemetery, Ringgold, GA.
Pallbearers honoring Robert are Steve Harville, Dennis Perry, Pedro Garcia, Michael Conley, Mike Nichols, and Kurt Johnson.
In closing, we find comfort in the scripture, 1 Thessalonians 4:13 & 16 which gently reminds us that knowing Christ, we hold the promise of reuniting with Robert once more; 13] But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope 16] For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Robert's gentle spirit and steadfast love will forever shine bright in the hearts of those who knew him.