Hunter, James Robert

James Robert Hunter, known to many as “J.R.” went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, August 5, 2008, at the LewisGale Medical Center with his loving, caring family with him.

He was born in Pulaski, Va., on December 25, 1942, to the late Julia Hunter. James dedicated over 30 years of service to General Electric in the shipping department before retiring. For a while, he also worked as Deputy Sheriff for the Roanoke City Sheriff’s Department. After retiring from General Electric, he worked in the Roanoke City School System for eight years as an aide for special needs children until his second retirement.

Deacon Hunter was a faithful member of High Street Baptist Church where he served on the Deacon Board, the Sanctuary Choir and director of the Male Chorus. James was a graduate of Christianburg Institute and a member of CIAA Roanoke Chapter. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and loyal friend. His joy was planning activities for his grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Julia Hunter; his brother, the Rev. Bobby Gene Hunter; and an aunt, Annie Laura Hunter. He leaves to cherish his memory a devoted wife, Valerie Hunter; two sons, Keith Logan (Chantoni) of San Antonio, Texas, and Michael Claytor, of Flint, Mich.; one daughter, Julia Marie Hunter, of Roanoke, Va.; two brothers, Edward (Betty) of Roanoke, and David (Robin) of Pulaski, Va.; one sister, Connie (David) of Pulaski, Va.; seven grandchildren; one greatgrandchild; and a host of relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held noon on Saturday, August 9, 2008, at High Street Baptist Church with the Rev. Ulas N. Broady officiating. The interment will be in Williams Memorial Park. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Friends may call on Friday afternoon, August 8, 2008, for viewing at Hamlar-Curtis Funeral Home. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.Hamlar-Curtis.com.