Walter J. Hunter

Walter J. Hunter was born on Saturday, May 16, 1925, in Kittrell, North Carolina to the late Joseph sand Sylvester (Jessie) Hunter. After a brief illness, Walter departed this life on April 28, 2023. Walter moved to Baltimore at age 4 from Kittrell, North Carolina with his parents (Joe and Jesse Hunter), two brothers and two of his three sisters. His third sister was born in Baltimore, Md. Walter received his early education in the Baltimore City Public School system. He began his work life at a young age helping in his Uncle Ira Hunter’s restaurant in Baltimore City. However, the major portion of Walter’s work life was spent at the Bethlehem Steel Company, Sparrows Point for 33 years. He retired on July 1, 1983. Walter was introduced to the ‘love of his life’ Erma C. Roles, by Erma’s Sister Doris. Walter and Erma were married on March 11, 1945, by the late Rev. Edmond D. Meade, who served as Pastor of Israel Baptist Church. From this union, they were blessed with five children. Walter and Erma were in wedded bliss for 68 years until Erma’s passing on December 26, 2013. Shortly after Walter dedicated himself to marriage, he was called to serve his country. He proudly served his country from September 6, 1943, to March 16, 1946. He served during World War II. Walter was a dedicated Christian and a faithful member of the Israel Baptist Church. As a young child, Walter’s father, Joe Hunter, brought Walter and their entire family to Israel Baptist Church often. However, it was only after a few years of marriage to Erma, that Walter was baptized in 1958. Walter was a very sociable person and was an active member of the Elks organization for many, many years and has remained a member until now. Walter also enjoyed working with his hands and fixing things. This was both his hobby and his passion, and he was exceptionally good at it. Mr. Hunter as most of his neighbors and some of his children affectionately called him, very strongly believed in family. He was not politically correct by today’s social standards. He believed that men should look after and take care of women. Boys should take out the trash, open doors for women, be polite, look neat, wear a tie, etc. (Mr. Hunter loved to look sharp.) The last few years of his life, when Walter’s mobility declined, he was so very fortunate to have a GREAT team of caregivers: Ethel Dudley (eight years), JoAnn Lawson (4 years), Jacqueline Towns (approx. 8 months) and Mary Bryant (approx. 8 months). They were not only caregivers BUT had a great friendship and family relationship with Mr. Hunter. On Friday, April 28, 2023, Walter J. Hunter transitioned from this earthly journey to his eternal home. He was reunited with his wife, Erma, with his parents and three of his siblings. Walter will definitely be missed by his children, family, and friends. Walter leaves to cherish his memories, five children: Joyce A. Thomas, Gregory M. Hunter, Roger B. Hunter, Martina Pack (Joseph) and Wesley Hunter (Diane); eight grandchildren: Lance E. Hunter, Valarie C. Hunter, Kevin Hunter, Angela M. L. Hunter, Dwayne L. Wooden, Darby I. Pack, Stephanie N. Hunter, and Jonathan W. Hunter; fourteen great-grandchildren and five great-great grandchildren; one brother, John Frank Hunter; one sister, Delores Williams and a host of nieces, nephews, friends, good neighbors, his Care Team, and his Israel Baptist Church Family.

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Walter J. Hunter

May 16, 1925 - April 28, 2023