The Justin Hunter Memorial Scholarship Fund
The Justin Hunter Memorial Scholarship was established to assist students from New Madrid County, Missouri who share Justin’s love of agriculture and agricultural economics and his affinity for the beauty of the Mississippi River and its surroundings.
Justin Riley Hunter, beloved husband, father, brother, cousin and uncle was welcomed by the Lord on Saturday, September 16, 2023. He was 54 years old. “Justin passed away of an unknown natural cause while getting his site ready for the upcoming deer season on his beloved Island Number 8 in the Mississippi River. Left to honor his memory are his wife Caroline, daughters Helena and Vivian, his parents Furg and Sarah Hunter, sisters Holly and Sarah Beth and countless aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. Justin was a proud son of New Madrid, Missouri. He attended Subiaco Academy in Arkansas and was a 1987 graduate of New Madrid County Central High School. Following his freshman year of college, Justin spent a year working on a boat on his beloved Mississippi River. Justin was a proud graduate of Mississippi State University, a true Bulldog through and through.
Justin struck off to pursue his love of politics, working on campaigns and ultimately serving as press secretary to Congressman Ed Bryant in Washington, DC. While working on Capitol Hill, Rhonda Keenum set Justin up on a blind date with Caroline Critchfield - who would become the love of his life. Justin and Caroline attended the University of Memphis School of Law together and were married in Caroline’s hometown of Boca Raton, Florida. They returned to Washington, D.C. after graduation and built a wonderful life together. After several years at Powers Pyles Sutter & Verville, PC, Justin became Senior Vice President at Encompass Health (formerly HealthSouth) in Washington, D.C. Justin had a strong work ethic, loved his colleagues and mastered healthcare policy and law. Justin’s greatest joy was being father to Helena and Vivian. He was an exemplary family man, known for his unmatched devotion to Caroline and his girls. Justin worked hard to ensure his daughters had the best education and opportunities. He was exceedingly proud of his girls and, thanks to his love, support and guidance, he knew they were outstanding children of God who will lead a happy life with meaning and purpose.
Loved by all who knew him, Justin was one of the most welcoming and caring people in the world. Justin was happiest when he was surrounded by family and friends or traveling all over our beautiful country and Scotland with his family. Justin was a man of faith and he never forgot his roots. He was comfortable with people from all walks of life, he treated everyone equally and was generous to all. Justin was a true patriot, a master BBQ chef and appreciated a fine bourbon. He loved a good party and if you caught him at the right moment, you might be lucky enough to experience his signature river dance.
Justin, true to his family name, developed a life-long passion for hunting. He learned to duck hunt with his Dad and cousins and loved introducing his daughters to hunting more than anything in the world. Justin left us unexpectedly while preparing for deer season with his cousin on his beloved Island Number 8 in the Mississippi River. Justin will be lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
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