Justin Skyler Hunsicker

Justin Skyler Hunsicker was born on July 19, 1985, in Schenectady, New York, and from the very beginning, he carried a spark that made people smile. A funny, caring soul with an easy laugh and a deep love for life, he had a way of bringing lightness wherever he went.
He spent the first 35 years of his life in Schenectady, working hard, laughing often, and building friendships that lasted a lifetime. He served tables at Ambition Café in downtown Schenectady, laid tile with the International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers, and brought dedication and care to every job he took on. At 35, Justin followed his adventurous spirit to Allen, Texas, where he continued to explore new paths and experiences. He later traveled the country installing MRI machines - a job that allowed him to see the world while continuing to build and fix things with his own two hands.
In 2024, Justin made one of the proudest choices of his life: he joined the United States Navy. He left for boot camp in March 2024 and graduated on May 16, 2024, as a Seabee Constructionman - a title that reflected both his craftsmanship and his character. He was stationed at the Naval Construction Battalion Center (NCBC) in Gulfport, Mississippi, and spent March through September 2025 serving in Guam before returning to the States just a month before his passing.
Justin loved the open road and had recently purchased a motorcycle, enjoying long rides along the seaside - feeling the wind, the sun, and the sense of freedom he'd worked so hard to find. A novice driver, he tragically suffered a fluke accident and fought bravely to recover, but on October 26, 2025, his journey on earth came to a close.
He loved his dog, Molly, who had been his closest companion and constant source of joy for many years. Together, they shared quiet mornings, long walks, and a bond that reflected his loyal, gentle heart.
Justin was a natural jokester, especially with younger family members - always ready with a funny comment or a pair of bunny ears in photos. He loved to cook, paying close attention to every ingredient, and often turned simple meals into something special. He found peace in art and music, drawing in notebooks, strumming his guitar, and writing non-fiction stories that captured his curious mind. He was also a keen movie critic, always ready to analyze a plot twist or recommend a film with thoughtful detail.
Those who knew him best will remember his contagious giggle, his fierce sense of fairness, and his ability to make people feel seen. He stood up for others, loved deeply, and never missed a chance to check in with family - no matter how far away he was.
He is survived by his loving mother, Laura Culver-Rivers, and stepfather, Robert Rivers; his only grandparent, Mary Jane Culver; his sister, Falon Hunsicker, and her partner James Brandt; and his cherished niece, Janayece Brandt, and cherished nephew, Flynn Ceremuga. He is also survived by his aunts and uncles Jill (Culver) & Tim Tietz, Lisa (Hunsicker) & David Hutchinson, Theresa (Hunsicker) & Mike Wasula, and Mike Hunsicker; as well as his cousins Holly (Tietz) & Trey Letchworth, Ryan & Sara Hutchinson, Lauren (Hutchinson) & Joshua Coyle, Nicole (Hunsicker) & Dane Brenner, Eric Hunsicker, and several other cousins.
Justin also leaves behind his lifelong friends and chosen brothers - Eric Posson, Joshua Gillman, David Posson, and Denis Miller - whose loyalty, laughter, and friendship were constants throughout his life. He was predeceased by his father, John R. Hunsicker, just this past May; his beloved dog Molly in January of this year; as well as his grandparents, aunts, and cousins. Most recently, he was preceded in death by his cousin Ryan Tietz on December 10, 2023.
Calling hours will be held at the Glenville Funeral Home, 9 Glenridge Rd., on Sunday, November 16th, from 12 PM to 2 PM, immediately followed by a Celebration of Life service at 2 PM. A reception will be held after the services.
A formal procession will leave the Glenville Funeral Home on Monday, November 17th, at 10 AM for Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, where the United States Navy will honor him with an active duty ceremony at 11 AM. Those driving in procession to the cemetery, please meet at the Glenville Funeral Home on Monday at 9:45 AM to line up vehicles.
Though his time here was far too short, Justin lived with courage, curiosity, and compassion. He built, served, laughed, created, and loved with all he had. His light will forever guide those who were lucky enough to know him - his family, his brothers in friendship, and all the friends he made along the way. His memory will live on in every story, every smile, and every gentle act of kindness done in his name. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Justin, please visit our floral store.