Keith Wilson Hunter
August 5, 1957 ~ September 18, 2004
Resided in:
Asheville, NC
Asheville ~ Keith Wilson Hunter, 47, died unexpectedly Saturday, September 18, 2004 at his residence.
Keith was a 1975 graduate of Asheville High School where he played football, baseball and wrestled. He was the son of Bobby and Roslyn Messer Hunter. He was preceded in death by a brother, Lane Hunter.
In addition to his parents, survivors include his wife, Geordi Gontero Hunter; a daughter, Amanda Keilee Hunter of the home; a son, Garrett Wilson Hunter of the home and a brother, Alan Hunter of Arden and his children, A. Nicole Hunter and Jonathan A. Hunter, both of Asheville.
Keith previously worked as a Quality Control supervisor for Olin Corporation. He was a devoted husband and father -- his family was his life. He loved sports and was a devoted TCR fan. He was a member of Arden First Baptist Church and attended Biltmore Baptist Church.
A memorial service will be conducted Thursday at 6:00 PM in the chapel of Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian on Long Shoals Road with Rev. Dr. Buddy Corbin officiating. The family will receive friends immediately following the service at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Keith W. Hunter Memorial Fund through Wachovia Arden Financial Center. This memorial will benefit the high school athletics which Keith so loved.
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Bobby & Roslyn, I was so sadden to hear about the loss of your son. I know what you are going through. I went through this about three years ago. My thoughts and prayers are with you and the family at this time. May God be with you and comfort you during this most diffcult time.
To the Hunter family, we are so sorry to hear about Keith. Our prayers are with you all during this loss of your loved one. God bless.
I was saddened to read about this in the paper. Keith and his wife have been good friends of mine for several years, mainly as former members of Calvary Baptist Church. In case word has not yet gotten around I want Geordi to know that I lost my own dear brother, Maurice, on June 3 of this year. Since the heartache has not yet healed I can understand how she and her family must surely feel and want them to know that they will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Rosyln,
We are so very sorry about Keith. I remember when we were small and Granny Allen kept Keith and Lane. He was a special person. I know that he will be greatly missed. Mother sends her love and please let us know if we can do anything at all.
Love,
Patsy & Myra
Geordi, Amanda & Garrett,
My mother, Gladys, and I want to tell you how sorry we are to hear of Keith’s passing. We always enjoyed your family when we were all at AFBC. May God give you the grace to walk this new road and may you feel His loving arms, supporting you all along the way.
In His Love,
Gretchen and Gladys Wirtz
My deepest sympathy goes out to the whole Hunter family as I will miss him and the heart of gold he had as a friend and the smiling face he had everytime we saw each other.
I was shocked to learn of Keiths death. He will be missed as a friend
Alan and family: Remembering going to the games and hanging out in W. Asheville. My prayers are with you.
Dear Hunter Family,
I want you all to know just how sorry I am about your loss. My prayers are with you.
Geordi and Kids, Mr and Mrs Hunter, Alan and Family,
Words cannot express adequately enough the sadness in my heart in learning of the passing of Keith. But at the same time, I rejoice with you in knowing that he is now home in Heaven with Jesus, our Lord and Savior. Keith has now been made whole and has seen The Father face to face and awaits the day that each of us who have put our hope in Christ will join him there.
I have nothing but fond memories of Keith for over the past 30 years that I have known him since Jr. High School. Always confident, always smiling! Through the years when when we hadn’t seen one another for longs periods, the time melted away as we would catch up in just the few moments that we may have had. I know that Keith impacted many lives but I’m most happy that he met and trusted Jesus as his Savior. I know that made a difference in your family because I got to share the experience with you all of seeing Keith’s son being baptized and trusting that same Jesus.
I pray that God will give you all the strength and courage to face the days ahead with peace and confidence as He embraces each of you with His Awesome Love.
Andre Massey
My Darling Keith,
My heart is broken and you’re the one I’m thinking of,
How am I ever going to live without you?
You are my one and only precious love.
I will always and forever hold on to our memories together,
And the precious moments we shared.
You are my entire world, my husband, my soul mate and my very best friend.
You have blessed my life with our children, Amanda and Garrett,
And I thank God that can never be undone.
They will always remember their Daddy, just as I,
A man who truly did it all.
You loved, held, laughed and cried with us through it all.
I’ll try to leave my heart open and loving,
Just the way you taught me to be.
But only you, my loving angel, shall hold the key.
Having experienced the once in a lifetime love that we shared,
Will be the only thing that can help me try to get through the days.
I long to feel your heart beat next to mine.
I want to laugh with you, I want to fight with you, I want to make up, but most of all I just want to feel your hand in mind.
Please watch over me and the kids and try to make us understand,
Until we can be with you again’?
I will love you forever!
Your wife,
Geordi
Daddy,
I love you and I miss you but I know you will be beside me every day. You are my hero!
Your son,
Garrett
Daddy ~
Man, I wish I knew where to begin but I don’t. I never thought I would have to do this so soon. This is harder for me than I ever could imagine, but I know deep in my heart we are going to make it and be just fine. I’m the strong one right now and I am going to do everything I can to watch over Mommy and Garrett. I got that quality from you’? Everyone tells me that the older I get the more like you I become, and I remember that use to worry them all. We don’t care what people think about us, they can like us or not, but we are not going to change for anybody, and Mommy use to tell me that wasn’t the way to live life. She said you could not make nor keep friends that way. But by judging from all that has gone on the last couple of days, you have more friends than anybody I know! And they love you for just you because you never put on an act for any of them. I want to be the same way! People use to tell me that I would probably end up marrying someone like you, too. And when I think about it, I would do anything to marry a man like you. Words cannot describe the way you use to look at Mommy. Even through the roughest times, you looked at her like she was the most beautiful woman in the world. And, one day I hope I find a man that looks at me the way you looked at her. You truly loved her more than anyone will ever know.
You were such a wonderful husband and father to us. I know I wasn’t perfect and I made mistakes. But you always forgave me like it was nothing. You gave the world to me and I am so thankful I am your daughter. You never missed anything of mine, you were always right there whistling and hollering. And I know that you are going to continue to be right there doing the same. No one else will be able to see or hear you but me, and really that’s all that matters. You have always been my biggest fan. You were a bigger cheerleader than I ever could be. All I want to do is to make you proud. I know though you are going to walk beside me from here on out. When I walk across that stage, you will be beside me, and when I walk down that isle, you will be beside me too. You can now watch over me better than you ever could before. I loved you when you were here, I love you now, and I will love you forever. You truly are my hero. I’ll see you at the crossroads’?’?’?
Mana
Hunters,
I am truly shocked and saddened to hear of your loss. Having lost both of my parents last year my heart is definitely with your family. What you all wrote deeply touched me. God be with you.
With loving thoughts and prayers,
Sandra Huntsinger
Keith was a classmate of mine at Asheville High. I got to know him well while he was on the wrestling team . I played basketball and all the meets and games were played on the same day. We would bus down to Charlotte for the games. I remember him mostly by his good upbeat attitude. I don’t think I ever saw him without a nice hello or a smile. I know those times when he had to make weight for his wrestling matches were no fun, but even then he was upbeat.
I also knew him after his accident and being a member of the Y togeher.
The rehab and Phyiscal Therapy were brutual but I never heard him complain.I was lucky to have had him as a friend.
Sincerely;
John Wettach
Alan and family, we are so sorry to hear of Keith’s passing. Our prayers go out to all of you.
To all Hunter family members
Most of you do not and will not remember me. I did not see Keith much after High School. I was one of the neighborhood friends. We spent of lot of time with Keith just hanging out, or the rest of the time playing football behind Keith’s house in the church lot. I saw Keith not long ago; his big warm smile caught my eye after coming around the isle of the store, he was looking right at me. He gave me a brisk handshake and a hug. He told me about how the Lord had worked and was working in his life. Keith told me that his life was not his own and that all was in the Lords hands. I was humbled and at the same time so very proud to know that this friend of mine had made the one most important decision in his life and well as for all to believe. Life is but a vapor, it will not be long before we will see Keith again. Your lost for now is Heavens gain.
Geordi, Amanda & Garrett:
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. I think Amanda put it into words the best in her memorial to her father on this site. He was a man that was often heard before seen, but that was a tribute to his passion for life, his family and your activities. May you continue to focus on your fond memories to bring you comfort. Garrett, we are here for you, you have an open invitation to come over and hang out with Zac!
The Snyder – Fagan Family
we send our condolences to the Hunter family as well as prayers that God will guide them through process of healing for losing someone special in their lives our hearts goes for the children may God give them strenght to live and sooth their pain of losing their father,and God give Geordi the strenght to keep going and raising the children. We all know that Keith is with the lord and that one day you will see him again keep that in mind it helps to live knowing that, To the parents our condolences goes to you both let God give you peace knowing that Keith is in heaven that you shall one day meet again may God Bless You all
Hey Garrett! I know what you’re going through. My dad died when I was seven and I miss him. If you need any kind of support,you can always come to me. ALWAYS. Love, Chelsea
Geordi,Amanda,Garrett,
We are very sorry to hear about Keith. May God Bless You All, we will keep you in our thoughts and prayers.
Dear Hunter Family,
While I didn’t know Keith very well — being a college dorm-mate of Geordi’s — I know he was so loved his family and well-liked by everyone. He sure could tell a lively story, especially when talking about his kids! I saw him last at a 4th of July gathering and he seemed just as in love with Georgi as the first time I met him in 1978. I was, and still am, in awe of their love and committment to each other. I know he will be sorely missed, but his spirit is with you all and you must carry on just as he would want you to do! Love, Kim
Dear Geordi and family,
I share your grief with Keith’s passing. Keith was such an inspiration and I will miss him.
God Bless you all. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Geordi,
It is so hard for me to accept that this tragedy is real, I can’t imagine what you and your children are going through.
If I can be of any help to you, call me at the Register of Deeds office. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Love,
Debbie
Geordi, I know that words are so inadequate at this time. Keith was a wonderful guy and I know you miss him terribly. Just know that I am praying for you and the kids. I am here for you anytime night or day.
Love, Tracy
Dear Geordi and family, Long time no see. I got out of the area and I am truly sorry to hear about Keith! If anyone knows how I felt about Keith, you do! He was my best friend for a long time and I knew him better than anyone, but you. We did alot of mean things together but we created a bond for life. I will never forget him. He was a very unusual person. Even his children don’t really know what kind of athlete he was. Of course I’m sure you still have the infamous scrap book of Keith that you put together when you were in high school. I am a christian now and I pray to meet Keith again some day. Best of luck with your kids and I would love to say hi to you some day. My # is 5822670. Hopefully, still a friend, James Fisher
GEORDI- I DONT EVEN HAVE TO PUT IT
INTO WORDS AS I KNOW YOU KNOW HOW I FELT ABOUT KEITH. I MET HIM WHEN I WAS THIRTEEN YEARS OLD AND WHAT A
IMPRESSION HE MADE. I LOVED THAT MAN AND MAY I ADD THAT YOU TWO WERE A MATCH MADE IN HEAVEN. HEARING THE
NEWS IN MRYTLE BEACH WHERE WE HAD LAST SEEN YOU BOTH WAS MORE THAN I COULD BARE. I AM SO SORRY KIM AND I WERE NOT HERE FOR THE MEMORIAL. I WILL NEVER FORGIVE MYSELF. I LOOK BACK ON ALL THE FUN WE SHARED THE LAKE THE NEW YEARS EVE WE SPENT
TOGETHER, AND OF COURSE THE TIMES KEITH SPENT AND THE BEAUTY SHOP– HE WAS THE BEST MR MOM IN THE ENTIRE WORLD.I HAVE NEVER KNOWN A MAN THAT LOVED HIS FAMILY ANY MORE THAN KEITH– AND HIS LOVE FOR YOU WAS SO POWERFUL. YOU BOTH WERE SO BLESSED TO HAVE EACH OTHER. GOD GAVE YOU TWO BEAUTIUL CHILDREN THAT WAS A GIFT YOU WILL HAVE FOREVER.
KEITH WAS SO PROUD OF HIS CHILDREN
AND YOU BOTH WERE THE MOST PRECIOUS
PEOPLE I HAVE EVER KNOWN. YOU AND THE KIDS WILL BE IN MY PRAYERS. PLEASE CALL ME AT ANY TIME — I WILL ALWAYS BE HERE FOR YOU. I LOVE YOU GEORDI HUNTER –MAY GOD KEEP YOU CLOSE TO HIS HEART.
LOVE
TERRI DAVID AND GIRLS
Geordi, I just recently heard about Keith’s passing and was very saddened to hear of your loss. The last time I saw Keith was here in Atlanta at Northside Hospital as he was put on the helicopter to take him back to Asheville. While you were here, I was so amazed at your strength and your love for Keith, that it left an impression on me that is still with me today. May God bless you and your children and know that Keith will be in your heart always.
We are very sadden by your loss, your family are in all of our thoughts and prayers. The Class of 1973, Asheville High School.
To the family,
Our hearts truly are with you during this time. We are praying God’s grace will be greater than your grief. We are so glad you live in the blessed hope that you will see him again, and you will!
In His Love,
Sue Gaither
Chaplain,
Asheville Police Department
The Hunter Family, Keith you are my hero. You showed me life had no limitations. You had such compassion for people and heart of gold. God used you in such a mighty way. You we’re a giver not a taker. I will miss you Keith. I know you have a whole body now and God is wrapping his loving arms around you.
Geordi, our heart goes out to you; words can’t explain how we feel for you and how much we cared about Keith. He was an inspiration to all of us and loved you all with everything in him. Please know you are lifted up in prayer.
Joe and Lesli Meadows
Hunter Family,
Our deepest sympathy to you over the loss of Keith. It had been a long time since we had seen Keith, but will always remember him fondly.
Peggy & Tony Farlow
Susie Farlow English
Geordi,Amanda,and Garrett, Please accept our heart-felt condolences for the loss of your husband and father. There are no words that will ease the immediate pain, but rest assured that our prayers and those of others will give you the strength and comfort you’ll need to see your way through these difficult times. With our prayers and love,The Paulsons
Hunter Family,
We’re so sorry for your loss. We grew up with Keith and his brothers, playing in Bud & Peggy’s yard. We’ve all gone our seperate ways but will always treasure those fun days.
You’re in our thoughts and prayers. May God give you comfort in your time of need.
Love,
George & Thelma Farlow
Gayle, Teresa, Lynn & Jr.
Hunter Family,
Please accept our deepest sympathy over the loss of Keith. I had the opportunity to grow up with him, and marveled at his tremendous athletic ability in high school. He was an inspiration to me and he left his mark on many, many people. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. May God bless you.
Mitch & Lane Atkinson
Geordi& Children, I am so sorry to hear of Keith’s passing, but rejoicing that he was a christian! Keith loved you so much! And I know the Lord is going to keep you and Keith’s children close to His heart and get you through this terrible tragedy. My husband passed away 4 and half years ago from a brain tumor and the Lord has never left my side and I know He will not leave yours either! I attend Biltmore Baptist Church weekly and would love to have you come with us…my daughter Chelsea and son AJ also attend school with Garret at Valley Springs…and we would love for you to come with us whenever you want. My number is 651-9491…please know you and your children are in our prayers!
Dearest Geordi, Amanda, Garrett, Bob and Roslyn my thoughts and prayers are with you. I am convinced that God does things in his own time and we have to believe in his judgement. Just know that He is with you now just as Keith will always be. I can only imagine the pain and heartbreak you feel right now. Memories are precious and they keep us close to our loved ones. Keith will never leave you and you have to smile for him, laugh for him, cry for him, enjoy life for him. He would want it that way. Geordi please know that I am here for you and you can talk to me anytime. You and Keith have been my friends for many years. He was a special person in many ways, his smile and ‘Hello Honey’ will last forever.
God Bless, Nancy
Geordi, I’m so sorry to hear about Keith. I know you and the children have many wonderful memories to hold special in your hearts.
Love, Jean Graham
Dearest Geordi, Amanda, & Garrett,
My heart has truly been broken for all of you since hearing the news of Keith’s passing. You know, it’s easy for those of us on the outside to feel sympathetic but it’s really impossible unless you’ve been put in that situation to really understand the loss you feel. I wish I could take that pain away. You have to find strength in God and each other and give thanks for what you still have. I know you will always hold Keith close in your hearts and just live for the day that you will be with him again. That’s the blessing that God promises us all. The one thing that I see is that God does things like this, even though it is immensely painful to you and your family, to give you and those around you pespective. You and Keith have touched many lives, including mine, and I am thankful for that and my new perspective.
Know and be assured that me and my family will be thinking of and praying for you now and in the days ahead.
Much love,
Mark
(Teresa and Taylor send their love)
Dear Geordi — I am so sorry to learn of Keith’s passing. Even though I haven’t seen either of you in years — I never forgot you or Keith. I especially remember the time after his accident — as I witnessed the love between you two begin the long road to his recovery. You & Keith are two of the most special people that I have ever known and I just wanted to tell you that you are in my prayers.
Lean upon God and He will give you the strength to endure this time of loss.
Love,
Jolene Bowen
I will always look back on the great times we spent at AHS and the park with a smile . i admired keiths zest for life and sense of humor. i am sorry i cannot be there —–John Giezentanner
So sorry to hear of your loss. I’ll never forget how Keith always made us laugh at the Land of the Sky Cheerleading Gym. I never saw him without a smile on his face. Your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Lisa, Morgan and Taylor Hall