Gary Hunt

1947 - 2025

Gary DeWayne Hunt had crappy lungs, and they finally gave out in the early hours of Sunday, September 28th after a lifetime of laughs, deep breaths, long suffering sighs, perfectly timed yawns, and well told stories.

He was born August 6, 1947 to Daniel Wayne Hunt and Melba Lorraine Hunt (née Joyner), both of Palmetto. An air force brat, he spent early years in California, Japan, England, Virginia, Oklahoma, and finally, home sweet home east Bradenton.

He is survived by one daughter, Cislyn Marie Smith, his sister Deborah Lorraine Ben, his nephew Joshua Ben, many dear cousins, even more friends, and family not by birth spread across many states and time zones who will all miss him dearly. His heart was full and enduring, but his lungs couldn't keep the party going.

Gary loved snook fishing on the Manatee River, nature photography, history, games, cooking, science, reading, mineral and fossil collecting, wine, astronomy, native plants and ecology, having too many hobbies, and most particularly: music.

If you happened to be on the river at just the right time you might hear the dulcet tones of Mozart across the waters of Sunset Bayou. You were just as likely to hear Loreena McKinnett, AC/DC, The Moody Blues, Radiohead, or Santana. His tastes were eclectic, generous, and far reaching, just like him.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Florida Native Plant Society in his name (https://www.fnps.org/support/donate). An after party to celebrate a life well-lived will be held on October 24th at the house and property he loved. If you know the place, you're invited.