In addition to his parents, Leon was preceded in death by his brothers, Donald, Ivan, Charles and Edward Gunter.
He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Margaret Beeler Gunter; daughters, Tamora Williams (John) of Martinsville and Ibby Ralph (Joel) from Raleigh N.C.; grandchildren, Linus Leon Ralph and Colin Christopher Ralph; and many beloved nieces and nephews.
Leon was a graduate of Patrick County High School and Pfeiffer University. He received his master’s degree in administration from North Carolina A & T State University. He dedicated 40 years of his life to public education in the Henry County School System. He was an English teacher who also enjoyed coaching track and football. He was a principal at Bassett High School and an assistant principal at Magna Vista, Laurel Park and Axton Middle schools. He later served as an administrator in the Henry County School Board Office.
Leon loved spending time with his family and especially his grandchildren. He collected clocks and antique furniture and loved going to estate and antique sales. He was an avid sports fan and loved watching Virginia Tech football and Dodgers baseball games. One of his favorite joys in life was the food and many friendships he had at Clarence’s Steakhouse.
The Gunter family expresses their sincere appreciation for the love and support provided by Aaron and Joy Smith, C.J. Talley, Rosetta Peatross, Patsy Harris, and Tammy Reynolds, who were Leon’s caregivers. The family would also like to express their gratitude for the friendship, support and love of his long-time dear friend, Leslie (Flash) Gordon.
A visitation will be held from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm on Tuesday, February10, 2026, at McKee-Stone Funeral Home. A private interment will held at a later date at Oakwood Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Martinsville and Henry County Warming Center, P.O Box 3449, Martinsville, VA 24115 or to the Grace Network of Martinsville, P.O. Box 3902, Martinsville VA 24115.
McKee-Stone Funeral Home, Martinsville, Va. is serving the family. To express condolences online, please visit www.collinsmckeestonemartinsville.com
