Troy Gene Hunt

Troy Gene Hunt, a devoted family man, decorated Navy veteran, and pillar of his community, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, at the age of 95. Born on July 8, 1929, in Valliant, Oklahoma, Troy lived a life defined by hard work, faith, and unwavering generosity.

Troy was predeceased by his beloved wife, Ola Faye, with whom he shared 34 years of love and partnership. Troy had six children: Donna Black (Bob), Pam Kenyon, Judy Merker (Kirk), Dennis Hunt (Theresa), Michael Hunt (Cindy), and Bruce Hunt (Brenda). Troy was a proud grandfather to 17 grandchildren, 32 great-grandchildren, 4 great-great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. He also cherished the birthday bond he shared with his niece, JoAnn Gabehart, and his sister-in-law, Barbara Hunt-Cline. He was preceded in death by his parents, Annie Lou and Thomas Earl Hunt, and his six brothers: George, Roy, Bill, Alvin (TA), Raymond, and Leonard.

A skilled and dedicated professional, Troy built a career as an electrical instrument foreman, maintenance and safety supervisor at Southwestern Portland Cement, and rancher. Before that, he honorably served his country as a Navy Airman during the Korean War. His commendations included the Good Conduct Medal, Korean Service Medal with one-star, United Nations Service Medal, and National Defense Service Medal. He also served as President of the Instrument Society, reflecting his leadership and expertise.

Troy’s passions were rooted in the outdoors and his love for his family. He spent countless days hunting, fishing, and exploring nature with his Ola Faye. He delighted in teaching his family about the land, including the trees he knew so well, like the “muskeedime.” Many will fondly remember his infectious laugh, his good-natured sarcasm, and his signature, “What do you mean?”, and the countless rides out on the four-wheeler to help him feed the cows or just survey the pasture. His commitment to service extended beyond his family. Troy was a dedicated member of Wright City Assembly of God, where he faithfully attended and volunteered, particularly in senior citizen ministry. His daughter described him as a caregiver. It was clear throughout his life that he saw service to others as his calling; whether it was raising his family, lovingly caring for his mother, brothers and wife, or joyfully rising each morning to take care of his many cows. He could often be found driving elderly widows to church or helping anyone in need. His honesty, humility, and readiness to serve made him a cornerstone of his community, always willing to drop everything to help a friend or loved one.

Troy’s legacy is one of faith, family, and forgiveness. Despite life’s challenges, he exemplified resilience and grace, striving to be better each day. As one of his sons described, Troy was like David in the Bible—imperfect but repentant, and deeply grateful for the blessings in his life. He taught those around him to love fiercely, trust the Lord, and never let mistakes define them.

A celebration of Troy’s remarkable life will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, November 30, 2024, at Boxwell Brothers Ivy Chapel, 2800 Paramount, Amarillo, Texas. In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor Troy’s memory by making a donation to St. Jude’s’s Children’s Research Hospital, just as he did for many years. 

Troy Gene Hunt’s legacy of love and kindness will live on in the countless lives he touched. He was a model of humility and generosity, and his memory will be cherished by all who knew him.