Samuel L. Hunt

Samuel “Sam” Leroy Hunt was born on June 2, 1937, in Terre Haute, Indiana, to the late District Elder Elijah Hunt, Pastor of True Gospel Tabernacle Pentecostal Church, and First Lady Blanche Hunt, who both preceded him in death.

Sam was the only child born to this marital union, having a brother who was still born two years earlier.

Sam went to Wiley High School in Terre Haute, Indiana, graduating in the class of 1955. He was a member of the men’s track team and studied Ministry. After graduation, he attended Indiana State, majoring in history before enlisting in the U.S Army. While serving in the Army he was deployed to France and in 1958, Sam returned home to marry his high school sweetheart, Linda Mae (Sutton) Bean. To this union two children were born, Kevin DeWayne Hunt (who preceded him in death) and Monique Hunt McWilliams. Due to an immediate family need, Sam left the Army to care for loved ones and moved to Indianapolis, Indiana. Later in life Sam met Cathy Lee Hazelwood, and they married in 1997. From this union Sam gained four stepsons: Michael Smith, Paul and Keith Smith (who preceded him in death), and Clifton Smith.

Sam had a very strong work ethic and prioritized caring for his family. After returning home from the Army he started a commercial cleaning business and worked at Union Carbide Corporation before being hired at General Motors Truck and Bus Plant (GM). Over his GM career, Sam supervised skilled tradesmen and was blessed to retire after 30+ years of service. While at GM Sam volunteered to support many GM programs including mentoring young men and playing on the company baseball team. After retiring from GM, Sam was restless and took on a part-time job working for a GM supplier before deciding to help care for his two grandchildren, Jasmine McWilliams and Terrence McWilliams, Jr.

Sam accepted Christ at a very early age in his father’s church. He was a man of strong faith and shared his testimony to everyone who crossed his path. He also was well versed in the scriptures and truly enjoyed teaching others. Sam joined his loving wife Cathy as a member of St. John A.M.E. Church where he was a Steward, taught men’s bible study, was a member of the Sons of Allen, and sang in the choir. Sam truly loved all sports though he was an avid bowler in many leagues throughout the city for several decades. He especially enjoyed watching basketball and football on TV and discussing or debating the games with family and friends. Sam was a 32nd degree Mason with the Meridan Lodge No. 33. Sam placed faith and family above all. He had an outgoing spirit and never met a stranger he didn’t give the courtesy of saying “hello.”

Sam’s transition is a significant loss to many. Sam fought a good fight and finished his course! He was called from this earthly labor to receive his Heavenly reward on Friday, March 14, 2025, in Indianapolis, Indiana. He leaves to cherish his memory, his wife of 27 years, Cathy; daughter, Monique (Terrence, Sr.); granddaughter, Jasmine McWilliams; grandson, Terrence, McWilliams, Jr.; two stepsons, Michael Smith (Mary) and Clifton Smith (Belinda); cousins, sisters in-law, brothers in-law, friends, and church members.

A visitation for Samuel will be held Wednesday, March 26, 2025 at 10:00 AM at St. John AME Church, 1669 Columbia Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46202, followed by a celebration of life at 12:00 PM.