Steven Parker Hunter

SUFFOLK, VA - Steven "Steve" Parker Hunter, age 77, passed away on December 22, 2024, in Suffolk, Virginia. Steve was born on December 29, 1946, in Elizabeth City, North Carolina to parents Abner and Lillian Hunter. Steve lived a life rich with quiet dignity and unwavering devotion to his family, and he will be dearly missed by all who knew him. His quiet strength and steadfast love will remain in the hearts of his loved ones forever.
A proud veteran, Steve served as a medic in the United States Army where he served two tours during in Vietnam. His military service took him to various places, including a time stationed in Hawaii, where his love for sailboats was born. When he was back stateside, Steve continued his love of sailing, eventually purchasing a small sailboat affectionately named Lola.
After his time in the Army, Steve channeled his skillful hands and attention to detail into a successful career as a self-employed craftsman with Hunter Wood Works, specializing in Adirondack furniture. Steve also found joy in working with reclaimed wood, seeing the use and beauty in old wood. He was a man of few words who let his work speak for him, producing pieces that were both functional and beautiful.
Steve had an enduring love affair with his vehicles, namely his trusty Ford F-150 that he would not part with even after it was damaged during a tremendous hailstorm. Steve spent time working out the dents, making his favored truck almost new again. He also had a talent for restoration, and he worked to restore a 1988 Ford Mustang that stood out, being an eye catching white with a navy-blue top. The Mustang became Steve's prized possession, a testament to his ability to restore and cherish what others might overlook.
A dedicated learner, Steve spent countless hours watching YouTube videos, absorbing knowledge on history and sailboats, among other subjects. His home was a testament to his handyman skills, always impeccably maintained. Steve also enjoyed not only maintaining his vehicles and house.
Preceded in death by his parents, Abner Benton Hunter, Sr. and Lillian Nash Hunter, his brother, Abner Benton Hunter, Jr., and his canine companion and best friend Sue.
Steve leaves behind a legacy of love and resilience. He is survived by his devoted wife, Joan Brunell Hunter; his sons Aaron Hunter and Brady Hunter; his step-daughter Annette Knapp and her husband Allen; his grandchildren Joshua Rose and wife Sarah, Stephanie Leitner and husband Jackson, Cassie LaVoun, and Natalie Knapp; his great-grandchildren Hannah Rose, Jace Rose, JJ Leitner, Lyrabelle Leitner, and; his sister Janet Cooke; and his brother Harry Hunter and wife Kerri.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, December 29, 2024, at 2:00 p.m., with a time of visitation following, at Garrett-Sykes Ahoskie Chapel.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to PAWS of Hertford County, P.O. Box 153, Murfreesboro, NC 27855, by clicking here or online at www.tmcfunding.com/search by typing Steve Hunter in the search bar.
Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service - Ahoskie Chapel is handling the arrangements for the Hunter family, and online condolences can be shared with the family by visiting www.garrettsykesfs.com
Steve's service will be livestreamed and it will begin a few minutes prior to the service time. In the event there are techinical difficulties, the service will be uploaded to his obituary following the service.