John Henry Hunter Jr.

09/05/1955 - 11/15/2025

John Henry Hunter, Jr., affectionately known as "Junior," was born on September 5, 1955, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, to the loving union of John Henry Hunter, Sr. and Marie (Munson) Hunter. Junior was raised in a home filled with laughter, joy, and abundant love.
His parents opened their doors and hearts to raise their nieces and nephews after the passing of their parents, which meant Junior grew up surrounded by bonus brothers and sisters. Among them, one sister, Mary Thomas, was like a second mother to Junior and his younger sister, Rose-guiding, nurturing, and loving them throughout every season of life.
Junior grew up in the close-knit, historically Black neighborhood known as the Westside, where he loved playing sports at West Park, exploring the outdoors, and spending time with his lifelong friends: Wesley Jones, Larry Guinyard, and Clinton Brantely, among others. He attended Bethel AME Church, where his love for the Lord was nurtured and strengthened. Those years helped shape his gentle spirit and kind heart.
Junior was educated in the Ann Arbor Public Schools and graduated from Pioneer High School in 1973. A lover of science with a natural mechanical aptitude, he was accepted into the engineering program at California Institute of Technology (CalTech). Though his time there was brief, his acceptance to such a prestigious program showcased both his brilliant mind and his natural curiosity about the world around him.
After returning home, Junior enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he served his country with honor and pride. He later earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Eastern Michigan University.
Throughout his life, Junior held several positions, but the role he cherished most was caring for his parents. With deep devotion, patience, and abiding love, Junior helped care for his father and later served as the primary caregiver for his mother as her health declined. It was his sacrifice and steadfast commitment that allowed his mother to stay in the home she treasured until she went home to be with the Lord-a beautiful testament to his love and faith in God.
Junior carried the light of the Lord in the way he loved others-quietly, humbly, and generously. As an adult, he continued to love what blessed him as a child: being in nature, whether through his walks or through savoring peaceful moments on the front porch or in the backyard of his family home.
Family meant everything to Junior. He was always ready with a kind word, a joke to lighten the load, or thoughtful insights about politics, history, sports, or whatever topic came up. He loved music and was especially fond of jazz. Though he had no children of his own, he poured his love into his nieces and nephews, celebrating their accomplishments and offering encouragement and advice as they navigated life's journey.
When life got heavy, they knew exactly where to go. They'd arrive at his door carrying burdens that felt impossible to bear, but his humor, his listening ear, and his gentle wisdom had a way of lifting that weight. Uncle Junior made them feel seen, heard, and deeply loved-and they carried that gift with them long after leaving his presence.
Junior will be missed tremendously. He was a simple man with a full heart-gentle, steady, and deeply loved.
He leaves to cherish his memory: one sister, Rose M. Hunter; one brother, Therman Hunter; three aunts, Lillie Munson, Charlene Glaze, and Christine Glaze; one uncle, Isaiah Munson; and a host of special nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends.
Junior was preceded in death by his parents, John and Marie Hunter; his sisters, Blondeen Munson, Mary Thomas, and Ruby Hunter; and his brothers, Freddie Munson, I.C. Hunter, and Robert Hunter.
Though we'll miss his gentle presence, we find comfort knowing Junior is at peace with the Lord he loved so faithfully. His legacy of kindness, humility, and unconditional love will continue to bless all who knew him.
Visitation will be held on Monday, November 24, 2025 at Nie Family Funeral Homes, 2400 Carpenter Road, Ann Arbor, from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm. The Family Hour will take place on Tuesday, November 25, 2025 at Bethel AME, 900 John A. Woods Drive, Ann Arbor starting at 10:00 am. The Funeral service will follow and begin at 11am. Burial to follow at Fairview Cemetery of Ann Arbor.