Hugo Darlington Hunte

Hugo Darlington Hunte was born on June 28, 1943, to Dorcas (Lewis) and Darlington Hunte in St. Michael, Barbados. He was their first child and only son. Hugo had fond memories of his early years in Barbados: visiting family and friends, trips to the beach before school, climbing fruit trees, and Sunday School Anniversaries. After emigrating with his family to Brooklyn, NY, at the age of 10, he continued to cherish time with his family, especially his sisters, Angelia, Alexia, and Heather, and their many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Hugo was industrious and hard-working, holding a job even before he completed high school. He graduated from Wingate High School in 1961. A natural provider, he gladly contributed to the household expenses. Hugo served two years in the United States Army as a medic in France, receiving an honorable discharge in 1968. He went on to complete accounting courses and began working for Irving Trust (now BNY Mellon), where he would remain faithfully for the next 42 years through several mergers, including a relocation to Florida. Though he became a respected authority in his department, Hugo remained approachable and humble, always ready to offer help and encouragement to colleagues who sought his guidance.

As a teenager, after attending a Bible camp in New Jersey, Hugo gave his life to the Lord and lived faithfully for Him every day thereafter. He attended the Gospel Hall Assembly in Brooklyn, where he met the love of his life, Marva Anita Bridgeman. They married in 1979 and enjoyed 45 beautiful years together. They were blessed with three children: Leah, Joy, and Jonathan. Hugo was a devoted husband and father, always leading his family with quiet strength, compassion, and unwavering love.

Hugo’s faith was deep and genuine, woven into every part of his life. He served humbly in Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, and Bible Camps in both the United States and the Caribbean, motivated by a sincere desire for young people to know the love of Christ. He gave generously of his time, his talents, and his resources, never seeking recognition, but simply following the quiet convictions of his Lord.

Shortly before his 80th birthday, Hugo was diagnosed with cancer. He fought his illness with a deep reliance on his Savior and love for the family he was reluctant to leave. Throughout his illness, he was tenderly cared for by his devoted wife until he was called home to be with his Savior.

Hugo is survived by his beloved wife of 45 years, Marva; his children, Leah, Joy, and Jonathan; his grandchildren, Zakari and Zaire; his sisters, Ann (Ronny), Lexie (Dave), and Heather; his brothers- and sisters-in-law, Trevor, Randy, Betty, Juanita, and Ronald; his first “children,” nieces and nephews, Tanya, Antonio, and Desiree; Renee and Stephanie; and a host of cousins, as well as many great-nieces and nephews, friends, former colleagues, and brothers and sisters in Christ. He was predeceased by his parents, his eldest sister Jean Rivera, and his nephew Ron-Ron.

Hugo lived a life anchored in devotion to his Savior, marked by steady love for his family and humble service; a life that spoke powerfully through his faith and kindness rather than through worldly accomplishments. He saw himself simply as a sinner saved by grace, and his life was a reflection of deep gratitude for the mercy he had received.