Sammy Dwayne Gunter

Sammy Dwayne Gunter, age 70 of Tuscaloosa, passed away January 9, 2024 surrounded by his loving children, after an extended illness. Services will be held on Saturday, January 13, 2024 at 2:00 pm at Valley View Baptist Church with Bro. Billy Joy officiating and Magnolia Chapel South directing. Visitation will be held at the church one hour prior to the service.

He is preceded in death by his parents; Sarah Jackson and Sam Gunter and one brother; Kenneth Gunter.

Survivors include his daughter; Keri Gunter Scales, son; Chris Gunter (Allison), sisters; Pam Gunter Thompson (Eddie), Tracie Wright (Danny), Robbie Gunter Young (Kris), brother; Tim Gunter (Cathy), grandchildren; Jackson Daniel Gunter, Thomas Christopher Scales, Boyd Gunter Scales, special friend Carol Gunter, and many nieces, nephews and other family members.

Sammy Gunter grew up in Pell City on Wolf Creek Rd. Born and raised in this close-knit community, Sammy's passion for music blossomed at a young age. Attending Pell City High School, Sammy's talent for music became evident. He decided to form a band called Sympathetic Vibrations, where he showcased his skills on the drums, while his sister played the electric organ. Their performances even earned them the opportunity to appear on the Country Boy Eddie TV six times. 

In 1977, Sammy made a selfless decision to serve his country and joined the US Air Force. Throughout his time in the military, he was stationed in Big Springs, TX, where he started a family. It was during this period that Sammy's life took a new direction, filled with love and joy.

In 1981, Sammy and his young family relocated to Demopolis, where he embarked on a new adventure as the owner of an arcade.

A year later, in 1982, Sammy and his family moved once again, this time settling in Tuscaloosa. It was here that Sammy found his calling in the insurance industry. With his natural charisma and genuine care for others, he excelled as an insurance agent. 

After a fulfilling career, Sammy retired in 2012. His retirement was dedicated to cherishing every precious moment with his grandkids, who were his pride and joy. Whether it was playing games, taking them to feed the horses, going on walks, sharing stories, or simply being there for them, Sammy's love and presence has made a lasting impact on their lives.

While we lost our most beloved dad, many have lost a friend and loved one in him. He has been a rock to many, a master at sarcastic humor and witty timing to others, and even a glorious pain in the neck, to what I'm sure is a small select few (because no matter what happened between you in your lives, once you were marked as important to him, he'd be by your side if you needed him). There was so much more to him than just dad and Pops, though to us that was his greatest role. 

Today, as we bid farewell to Sammy, let us remember him for his infectious laughter, sense of humor and his unwavering love for his friends and family. His lighthearted spirit will continue to live on in the memories and hearts of all those who were fortunate enough to know him. Rest in peace, Pops and thank you for the joy you brought into our lives.

Honorary pallbearers will be members of Valley View Baptist Church.