Alma Elizabeth Hunter

Introduction

Alma Elizabeth Hunter, affectionately known as Elizabeth by many, passed away peacefully at home on January 21, 2026, her 96th birthday. Born January 21, 1930, in Vance County, she grew up in the tight-knit community of Kittrell and spent her life serving others with a heart full of love.

Family Heritage

Elizabeth was the dear daughter of John Early Hicks and Minnie Crews Hicks. She was preceded in death by her husband, Henry G. Hunter Jr.; her sons, Mac Arthur Hunter and Gaster Edward Hunter; daughters-in-law, Carolyn Hester Hunter and Brenda Wilkins Hunter; one sister, Dr. Ernestine Patterson Leary; and one brother, Thurston "Jack" Hicks. She leaves to cherish her memory one son, Thurstan Hunter; one sister, Naomi Neal; grandchildren Tonya Hunter, Altrina White, and Brandon Hunter; great-grandchildren Carter White and Ryan White; daughter-in-law, Cheryl Hunter; and a multitude of nieces, nephews, family, and friends.

Roots and Community

Elizabeth joined and was baptized at the Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church in Kittrell, NC, at an early age. Over the years, she sang in the choir, served on the usher board, and participated in various other ministries until her health prevented her from doing so.   In her final days, she enjoyed watching her new Pastor, Pastor Bagley, on Facebook and attending in person whenever she could. She attended Kittrell Graded School, where she recalled getting drinking water from a spring. She found purpose and meaning through service to others and built a life that reflected the values of community, family, and faith.

Work and Service

Elizabeth served in the Zeb Vance Elementary School cafeteria for more than 20 years, touching the lives of countless children. She cherished her time at Zeb Vance and recalled how she'd make sure all the children had something to eat, even if she had to use her own money. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of those she helped and in the memories of a cafeteria filled with care.

Hobbies, Spirit, and Character

Elizabeth loved visiting and sharing with family and friends. She was beloved by all who knew her and was frequently described as "sweet as she can be." Her peppermint candy puffs were legendary—she always kept an ample supply on hand, and sharing a handful of candy was a small act that reflected her generous spirit. Her memory remained sharp, and she remembered people, places, and things from decades past. It was truly a blessing that she had a sound mind to the end.

Family Love and Legacy

Elizabeth's love for her family was profound. She was the last of her husband's siblings and spouses, for many, their last aunt. She cherished all her nieces and nephews, and when asked who her favorite was, she said without hesitation, "all of them." Two nieces, however, Matilda Howard Bullock and Velma Hunter Crews, were more like daughters to her and stood by her to the end. She was also supported by her longtime aide, Stacy Russell, who was her "ride or die buddy." Family and friends will remember her as loving, kind, gentle, and always smiling.

Memorial Thoughts

To those who asked for a summation of her life, the simplest and most fitting is this: She was kind and touched many. She loved people, and people loved her in return. She lived a life of giving, faith, and service.   A great niece says, "I never heard anything bad about [her]. She was the sweetest person....as a kindergartner [at Zeb Vance] to my adulthood, ...She was a true angel here on earth, so I know [her crown] is full of gold and rare jewels in Heaven celebrating her birthday." 

 A Birthday and a Blessing

Elizabeth transitioned on her 96th birthday, and many find comfort in the belief that Heaven was her birthday present—a peaceful rest after a life well-lived, a life spent serving others with love, generosity, and an ever-bright, gentle spirit.

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