Claude Hunter,

Claude Hunter, Jr. Born 11-14-29 Died 08-15-06 Born in Celeste, Texas, Claude Hunter was preceded in death by his parents, Claude Hunter, Sr. and Winnie Tadlock Hunter, and one sister Deliah Mae Ausburn. He is survived by his wife, Velda Raper Hunter of Mesquite; mother-in-law Sarah Bernice Jenkins; four children, Deliah Hunter Holt and husband David of Mesquite; Tony Hunter and wife Bonnie of Commerce; Donnese Hunter of Irving; and Brian Hunter and wife Diane of Red Oak.Eight grand-children: Darien Holt, Daylan Holt, Ryan Hunter, Chad Hunter, Bradley Hunter, Wesley Hunter, Jaclyn Hunter and Lauren Hunter; one great-grandson, Hunter Holt; and one niece Brenda Marti. Shortly after graduating from Celeste High School, Claude went to work for Southwestern Bell until his retirement in 1987.His life revolved around family, friends and the outdoors.He had a passion for hunting and fishing, while teaching this love to his children and grandchildren.Summers at the lake and winters at the deer lease are most memorable.Since retirement, Claude and Velda have enjoyed traveling and dancing with their close friends. Claude lived life to the fullest until he lost his battle with cancer.He touched the lives of many, and will be missed by the family and friends he held so dear. Visitation, Thursday, August 17, 2006 at New Hope Funeral Home, Sunnyvale, Texas from 6-8 PM.Funeral services will be held on Friday, August 18, 2006 at 10 AM, Eastridge Park Christian Church, 2701 Town East Blvd., Mesquite.Burial at New Hope Memorial Gardens immediately following. In lieu of flowers, donations made be made to the Eastridge Park Christian Church Building Fund.