Balfour Hunnicutt

October 18, 1929 – February 23, 2024

A kind word about Balfour Hunnicutt.

Balfour died peacefully on Friday, February 23, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Balfour was the son of the late Dr. John Atkinson Hunnicutt and Jule Balfour Hunnicutt. He was preceded in death by the love of his life, his wife of 68 years, Jean Phillips Hunnicutt; his brother, John A. Hunnicutt, III, and sisters: Julia Hunnicutt Terry and Gloria Ashton Hunnicutt.

Balfour lived a wonderfully varied life. He loved the outdoors, his vegetable garden, farming, fishing, and hunting. He raised Black Angus cows; was a retired Captain in the Army Reserve; a real estate developer who along with his brother John, developed Homewood Hills Shopping Center and the Homewood Hills and Cherokee Forest subdivisions. Balfour was a Director of Jackson EMC for 40 years. While always creating and building, he honed his oil painting skills later in life in weekly painting classes with Sue Marion and friends.

Balfour was a lifelong member of Emmanuel Episcopal Church where he held many positions including Sunday School Director, vestry member and Holy Cooker. After many years of service, he was presented with “The Good and Faithful Servant” award, a recognition that he cherished until the end of his life. For many years, the annual church picnic was held at his home on Nowhere Road. Many will remember Sunday afternoon barbeques and softball at the Hunnicutt Farm. He taught many kids how to fish at the farm he loved in Madison County.

Balfour was a member of The Fresh Sign Club, which held significant importance in his life. Hunting and fishing trips with the guys left a lasting impact on his memories and friendships. Also, anyone who visited Balfour was treated to a review of the photo album and a retelling of the stories from his fishing trip to Canada.

Survivors include daughters: Barbara Crosby (Vic), St. Simons, Mary Cook (Hardy), Athens, Gloria Doran (Ed), Ft. Mill, SC, and Jean Massey (Dave), Rochester, NY; eight grandchildren: Ashton Kiesner (Joel), George “Pen” Erwin (Brandy), Will Erwin (Leslie), Barbara Smith (Quinn), Erin Wilson (Dan), Sarah Doran (Jack Coursey), Zach Doran and Josh Massey. He is also survived by six great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and a multitude of dear friends.

Balfour had a remarkable quality—he never met a stranger. His friendly and open nature allowed him to effortlessly connect with people from all walks of life. His genuine interest in others made every encounter a chance to form new connections and share meaningful moments. Additionally, Balfour had a wonderful sense of humor making him a joy to be around. Long live Sergeant Smythe Smythe!!

His final years were made better by the wonderful people at Talmage Terrace Assisted Living and St. Mary’s Highland Hills Memory Care. His presence left a positive mark on both communities.

Barbara, Gloria, and Jean are immensely grateful for the selfless dedication that our sister Mary showed as the primary caregiver for our father until his passing. Mary and her husband Hardy’s unwavering support, compassion, and love made his final years more comfortable. Thank you for your strength and commitment during this challenging time.

Thumbs up Dad, the gates of heaven are open, and Mustang Sally is on the stereo.

A gathering of friends and family will be held at Emmanuel Episcopal Church on Saturday, March 9, at 11:30 AM. The interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Emmanuel Episcopal Church, Oconee Hill Cemetery and Firefly Trail, Inc.

Bernstein Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.