Deacon Robert E. Gunter

"Let the life I've lived speak for me."
Robert Edward Gunter, Jr., was born on October 8, 1940, in Valdosta, Georgia, to the late Mr. and Mrs. Edward and Juanita Gunter. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three sisters. He began his eternal life on the morning of Friday, August 20, 2021. He was a devoted Christian and long-time member of Hill Chapel Baptist Church in Athens, Georgia, where he served as an ordained Deacon, Trustee and worked within the Brotherhood and Food Ministries. A dedicated friend, a dependable servant, and consistent in both presence and demeanor, "Bob," as he was affectionately known, genuinely cared about people and routinely offered his time, talents, and gifts to others. Bob completed his early education in Valdosta, Georgia. He graduated from Pineville High School, class of 1958, where he played varsity football. Following high school, he served in the United States Air Force and ultimately attended and graduated from Savannah State College. He attended graduate school at the University of Georgia, earning his Master's degree in Mathematics Education. Upon completing his academic studies, he began his professional career as an educator in the Clarke County School District, working as a mathematics teacher. From there, he went on to teach Mathematics in the Developmental Studies Departments at the University of Georgia and at Dekalb Junior College. He came back to work in Clarke County as a Supervisor of Operations and Maintenance and retired from the Clarke County School District in 1999. Given his love for people and his desire to serve, he quickly returned to work in the school district, working as a Hearing Officer in the Discipline Department. He retired once again in 2002. In addition to his work in education, Bob was also a licensed barber and was previously a successful entrepreneur of Billiards Hall in the community. He had many hobbies and interests and anyone who knew him knows he was an avid golfer. He loved the game and was one of the original founders of the Classic City Golf Association – a local organization designed to increase interest, exposure, and diversity in the sport. Beyond golfing, some of his other hobbies included, watching sports, learning about history, and collecting hats. Regardless of the event, Bob was rarely seen without one of his signature caps. Bob loved his Athens community, and his passion for teaching and serving others extended beyond his professional roles. He was a founding member of the Zeta Beta Beta (Athens/Gainesville) Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., and he routinely tutored students in math and taught many, including children and adults, how to play golf and how to swim. He also had several wonderful quotes that he often recited to all who knew him; just another reflection of his love of learning and a way for him to share knowledge with others. Bob was a kind-hearted and loving man, and although this was evident in all of his interactions, it was most apparent in the way he cherished his family. Bob was married to his friend and the love of his life, his wife, Deborah Bolton Gunter for 51 years. He also leaves to cherish his memory: one son, R. Bernard (Doryiane) Gunter; one daughter, Kensa Gunter; one granddaughter, Camille Gunter; two brothers, Tommy Gunter and Jeffery Gunter; a mother-in-law, Florence B. Davis; two brothers-in-law, Tommy (Jackie) Bolton and Carl Davis, III; and a host of extended family, friends, and loved ones.