With sad hearts we announce the death of Leslie Gene Hunter who died on Sunday, December 15, 2024.

All are invited to the service at 10:00am on Wednesday, January 22, at Saint Philip’s. The service will be live-streamed and can be found on Saint Philip’s website (www.stphilipstucson.org) under the “Worship” tab.

O God, whose mercies cannot be numbered: Accept our prayers on behalf of your servant Les, and grant him an entrance into the land of light and joy, in the fellowship of your saints; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
—The Book of Common Prayer, Burial of the Dead, Rite II

Leslie Gene Hunter, born in Meadville, PA on September 26, 1941 passed away peacefully on December 15, 2024, after a long illness. He considered himself a lucky man as he accomplished in life most, perhaps all, of his dreams and ambitions.

Very early in life, he found he enjoyed history and wanted to have a career as a historian. He received his BA, MA, and PhD in history from the University of Arizona. His career began and ended at Texas A&M University-Kingsville where he taught the history of cowboys to cowboys for 38 years.

Les was richly rewarded for what he loved doing by being named a Regents Professor of History, Emeritus, a Minnie Piper Stevens Professor as one of the best professors in the State of Texas, and a TAMUK Alumni Association Professor of the Year.

Over the years he published three books, multiple articles in academic publications, and was the editor of the Journal of South Texas, published by the University. His interest in teaching led him to be invited to present locally, statewide, nationally, and internationally.

But his greatest pride and joy was his family. He took them on trips that included every state in Canada and Mexico, and every state in the Continental United States. He wanted them to enjoy and appreciate this country, and he wanted to take photographs of historical places to enhance his lectures.

After retiring in 2007, he and his wife, Cecilia, continued their travels and visited many countries in Asia, Europe, and Australia. They returned to Tucson and became active members of Saint Phillip’s in the Hills Episcopal Church. At the church, he served on the Library Board and as an usher.

Les was predeceased by his parents, George and Gladys Hunter. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Cecilia Aros Hunter; his children, Louis G. Nuttycombe (Lianne) Raquel Abel, Daniel A. Hunter, and, Joseph A. Hunter; and, his brother Daniel Hunter. He also leaves behind four granddaughters, two great-grandsons, a niece, and three nephews.

Suggested memorial gifts of planting a tree in his memory can be found at www.afterall.com.