Leslie Gene Hunter

Leslie Gene Hunter, born in Meadville, PA on September 26, 1941passed away peacefully on December 15, 2024, after a long illness. He considered himself a lucky man as he had accomplished in life most, perhaps all, of his dreams and ambitions. Very early in life he found he enjoyed history and wanted to have a career as a historian. He received his BA, MA and PhD from the University of Arizona, in history of the American West and his career began and ended at Texas A&M University-Kingsville where he taught the history of cowboys to cowboys for 38 years. He was richly rewarded for what he loved doing by being named a Regents Professor of history, Emeritus, a Minnie Piper Stevens Professors as one of the best professors in the State of Texas and a TAMUK Alumni Association professor of the Year. Over the years he published three books, multiple articles in academic publications, and was the editor of the Journal of South Texas, published by the University. His interest in teaching led him to be invited to present locally, state wide, nationally and internationally.

But, his greatest pride and joy was his family. He took them on trips that included every state in Canada and Mexico and every state in Continental United States. He wanted them to enjoy and appreciate this country and he wanted to take photographs of historical places to enhance his lectures. After his retirement in 2007 he and his wife continued their travels and visited many countries in Asia, Europe and took trips to Australia. After retirement in 2007 they returned to Tucson and became active members of St. Phillip's in the Hills Episcopal Church. At the Church he served on the Library Board and as an usher.

Hunter was predeceased by his parents, George and Gladys Hunter. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Cecilia Aros Hunter and his children, Louis G. Nuttycombe (Lianne) Raquel Abel, Daniel A. Hunter, Joseph A. Hunter and his brother Daniel Hunter. He also leaves four granddaughters, two great grandsons, a niece and three nephews.

Services will be held at St. Philips Church at 10 a.m. on January 22, 2025. The service will be live streamed and can be found by visiting the St. Philip's webpage. In lieu of flower please consider planting trip in his memories