Dr. Leslie Gene Hunter, 83, a distinguished professor of history at Texas A&M University-Kingsville, died peacefully in Tucson on Dec. 15, 2024, after a long illness.
Hunter was born in Meadville, Pennsylvania, on Sept. 26, 1941. He often said he considered himself a lucky man as he had 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 B.A., M.A. and Ph.D. from the University of Arizona, in the history of the American West.
His career began and ended at Texas A&M University-Kingsville where he taught “the history of the cowboy” to cowboys for 38 years.
He was richly rewarded for what he loved doing by being named a Regents Professor in the Texas A&M University System.
He was also named a Minnie Piper Stevens Professor, designating him 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 his retirement in 2007, he and his wife, Cecilia Aros Hunter, continued their travels and visited many countries in Asia, Europe and Australia.
They returned to Tucson and became active members of St. Philip's in the Hills Episcopal Church, where he served on the Library Board and as an usher.
Hunter was predeceased by his parents, George and Gladys Hunter. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Cecilia Aros Hunter, and his children, Louis G. Nuttycombe (Lianne), Raquel Abel, Daniel A. Hunter, Joseph A. Hunter and his brother, Daniel Hunter. He also leaves four granddaughters, two great grandsons, a niece and three nephews.
Services will be held at St. Philip’s Church at 10 a.m. on Jan. 22. The service will be live-streamed and can be found by visiting the St. Philip's webpage.
