He had been a farmer and laborer.

He was a member of Hopewell Baptist Church.

He was born on March 4, 1930 in Alton, Illinois, a son of Charles W. and Edna (Sherfy) Hunter. On June 23, 1979 he was married to Mary E. (Dixon) Hunter, who survives.

Surviving are his wife, Mary; four daughters, Sharon L. Phillips of Eldon, Missouri, Mary Ann Minder of Enfield, Eileen Viola Summerford and Donna Mae Forgy, both of Longview, Texas; five sons, Gene Morris Jr. of National City, California, Lester Paul and Raymond, both of Granite City, Charles Anthony of Poseyville, Indiana, and Donald Lee Wren of Pasadena, Texas; seven sisters, June Marie Splittorff of Poseyville, Lolabelle Brewer of Jacksonville, Doralee Barrett of Lawrenceville, Hilda Mae Alexander of Bethalto, Mary Sheff of Godfrey, Shirley Kulencamp of Chesterfield and Lucille Skinner of Madora; 24 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were held at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, May 17, 2000 at Gholson Funeral Home. Rev. Robert Sefried officiated. Burial was in Hopewell Cemetery, with military rites by American Legion Post #106.

Friends may call from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. today, May 16, 2000 at the funeral home.