William Richard Hunter

William Richard Hunter, age 77, of Acushnet, passed away Monday March 16, 2015 at New Bedford Rehabilitation Hospital. He was the loving husband of Lorraine (Huot) Hunter with whom he would have celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary in June.

Born in Scranton, PA, Bill was the son of the late Nathaniel B. and Esther (Thomas) Hunter; he lived in PA until he began his service for the United States Navy. He graduated from South Scranton High School, and later attended the University of Massachusetts-Amherst where he enrolled in the Criminal Justice program. He then worked as a correctional officer for the Bristol County House of Corrections for many years.

He was a volunteer firefighter in Acushnet, a volunteer range officer for the New Bedford Police Department at the Police Gun Range in Dartmouth, MA, a volunteer at St. Luke’s Hospital in New Bedford and a member of the Ft. Taber Military Museum. He also enjoyed spending time with his family, fishing and trips to Twin River Casino.

In addition to his wife, Lorraine he is survived by three beloved daughters and sons-in-law: Diane Hunter and her husband Manuel Irujo, and Suzanne Cookson and her husband Richard Jr. of New Bedford, and Patricia Knight and her husband Douglas of East Freetown. He was Papa to his three grandsons who were his pride and joy: Adam E. Irujo of Lincoln, RI, and Alexander W. Irujo and Nickolas R. Cookson of New Bedford. He also leaves a sister-in-law: Alma Hunter of Moosic, PA, loving cousins, close friends and his beloved dog, Abbey. He was predeceased by his siblings John and Rose Marie Hunter.

His funeral will be held on Monday, March 23, 2015 at 8:00AM from the ROCK FUNERAL HOME, 1285 Ashley Boulevard, New Bedford with a Mass at 9:00AM in St. Mary’s Church, 343 Tarkiln Hill Road, New Bedford. Friends and relatives are welcome. Visiting hours will be held Sunday from 2:00PM to 5:00PM. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his honor may be made to the Wounded Warriors, PO Box 758517, Topeka, KS 66675 or a charity of your choice. Burial in Sacred Heart Cemetery, New Bedford.

For tributes or directions visit www.rock-funeralhome.com.