Bobby Lee Hunter, age 87, of Cornelia, Georgia, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, March 16, 2024.
Mr. Hunter was born on February 27, 1937, in Habersham County, Georgia, to the late Henry and Josie Garrett Hunter. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife of 43 years, Louise Hunter; daughter, Lola Louise Hunter; grandson, Corie Loudermilk; brothers, Tommy Hunter, Kenneth Hunter, James Hunter, and David Hunter; and an infant brother; and sisters Marie Purcell and Pauline Chitwood. Bobby was the last surviving member of his immediate family.
Bobby was a proud United States Army Veteran and a cherished member of Mt. Carmel Baptist Church in Demorest, where he served as a deacon and a valued choir member. In his professional career, Bobby dedicated 46 years of service to the Schnadig Corporation, where he held the role of supervisor. Upon retirement, Bobby’s passion for service continued as he transitioned to roles that allowed him to touch the lives of others. He shared his love with the youth of Habersham County by driving a school bus, ensuring their safety and well-being. Additionally, he worked as an assistant for Whitfield Funeral Homes. Bobby wore many titles with pride and humility, including “Daddy,” “Papa,” “Great Papa,” “Daddy Number 2,” and “Big Daddy.” His love knew no bounds, extending to all who had the privilege of knowing him. Bobby’s zest for life was evident in his passions and hobbies. An avid golf fan, he cherished the opportunity to attend the Masters for several years, where he shared his insights as a commentator for WLBA. Bobby’s infectious smile, hearty laugh, and genuine affection endeared him to all who crossed his path. His love for music, particularly the legendary Elvis Presley, was undeniable. Bobby’s guitar strumming and his patient teachings left an indelible mark, especially on his granddaughters, Chelcie and MaKenna, whom he delighted in teaching to play.
Survivors include his loving wife of 25 years, Fannie Murray Hunter, of Cornelia; daughters and sons-in-law, Michelle and Randall Loudermilk, of Mt. Airy; Sonya and Pete Herring, of Tallulah Falls; Michelle and Chris Shelnut, of Helen; Christina and Scott Morgan, of Cleveland; daughter, Amanda Mabrey, of Demorest; grandchildren, Chelcie Loudermilk, Chase Powell, Cagan Powell, Cooper Powell, Makenna Mabrey, Jay Bowens, Milam Mabrey, Zachary Shelnut, Isaac Shelnut; seven great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews and extended family.
Funeral Services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, March 20, 2024, at the Mt. Carmel Baptist Church in Demorest, Georgia, with Dr. Josh Taylor and Rev. Terry Rice officiating. Interment will follow in the Level Grove Cemetery with military honors provided by the United States Army and the Grant Reeves Honor Guard.
The family will receive friends from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 19, 2024 at the Whitfield Funeral Home, North Chapel.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Foundation, 1575 NE Expressway, Atlanta, Georgia 30329, or to Mt. Carmel Baptist Church, 988 Highway 441, Demorest, Georgia 30535.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Whitfield Funeral Homes & Crematory, North Chapel, 245 Central Avenue, Demorest, Georgia 30535. The telephone number is 706-778-7123.