James E. Hunter

James E. Hunter was born in Silsbee, Texas, March 8, 1954. His parents, Artis Hunter and Geneva Land Bailey, preceded him in death. He accepted Christ in his life and joined John Wesley A.M.E. Zion Church. There he was a member of the Trustee Board, co-chair of the Boys 2 Men Youth Mentor Program, an active member of Sunday school, and chair-person of the Golf Committee. James graduated from Silsbee High School, where he became an All-State and All-American athlete and was later inducted into the Silsbee High School Wall of Fame. Upon graduating from high school, the greatest coach in football history Eddie Robinson, convinced James to attend (on a full football scholarship) Grambling State University. With 26 career interceptions, he ranks No. 2 all-time in Grambling history and in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC). He also set a school record with four touchdowns on punt returns. James was honored as the Best All-Around Player for Grambling in 1974, 1975 and 1976. During his junior year he earned seven All-American honors from different organizations and he was named to the Black College All-American Team by the Mutual Black Network in 1974. He later received the ultimate honor from his conference as he was inducted into the Southwestern Athletic Conference Hall of Fame. After receiving his Bachelor's degree from Grambling State University, he became the number No.1 first-round draft pick of the Detroit Lions in 1976 and started at free safety. Nicknamed Hound Dog for his long-striding running ability, James made an instant impact in the National Football League (NFL). The 6-foot-2, 195-pound cornerback led the Lions with seven pass interceptions and was a runner-up as NFL Rookie Defensive Player of the Year. James made his transition to eternal life during the early morning of Monday, August 2, 2010. He shall always be remembered as a consummate professional - on and off the field. He made a significant impact on the field and in the community, as a businessman, a husband, a father and a grandfather. James' generous nature, big smile and warm personality earned fans and friends in Detroit. Throughout his Lions' career and beyond, he was involved in a variety of charitable activities. He was a lifelong member of the NAACP, an active member of Omicron Alpha Alpha Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc., and was known for his philanthropic efforts. James Hunter's legacy will continue to flow through his loving wife of thirty-three years, Emmalene, his son Javin, his daughter Marisa; his grandchildren Jaden, Jodan, and Hunter; his sisters, Mona Simpson and Kathy Lee (Martin); his sister-In-law, Jean Jarrett and Evelyn Hunter; and his away from home mother in Detroit, Gloria Hendrieth; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, family and friends. Funeral Service will be Saturday August 7, 2010. Visitation from 9AM until funeral 11AM at Silsbee High School Auditorium. Interment in Kirby Cemetery.