We met through coincidence and circumstance, with little on the surface that would typically form the foundation of a friendship. And yet, that’s exactly what we built. You stood firmly in your own experiences and perspective, but always made space for people different from you, including me. In time, we discovered we shared far more than we ever expected, and I will always be grateful for the friendship we found in that.
I will miss our conversations, the debates, the way we challenged each other and grew. Knowing you expanded not only my heart, but my mind, and who I am as a person. It will always be difficult to understand why your time here was cut so short, but that question will never outweigh the love and gratitude I feel for having shared even a small part of life with you.
I find comfort in believing your soul is now quiet and at peace. While your absence is deeply felt here, I know your spirit longed for that rest.
We gather today to remember you, to celebrate you, to miss you, to love you, and to send you on with all the marks of a life well lived—surrounded by friends who carry the memory of your signature smile as part of your lasting legacy.
You traveled a long road in just 40 years… now rest, my weary traveler and my friend.
—Talley

What a beautiful baby you were.   You had so much hair!  I can’t begin to explain how much I miss you.  I text you daily.  I’ve always loved the way you call me momma.  I love how protective you were with your sisters. I love your infectious smile, laughs, and tight hugs. I loved and will miss your orneriness! The tattoos on your skin told your story.  Your love for your family and Friday the 13th!  I miss you tremendously!  I can’t wait to get another hug from you….

The best smile. Love you Justin. 
   Grandma Alta

Eureka Springs - Christmas 2025. 
Justin and Dyson on their horseback ride. Shot the best picture of them! So glad I got this shot. These two were as close as could be. Thank you Justin Wayne Gunter for being a positive role model in my little brothers life.

Justin 
You made me an aunt, something that made me very proud,  even to this day.  I can remember making mud pies with you and you didn't want to get your hands dirty, so I put some mud on them and you cried like I had just stollen your favorite toy. LOL You hated your hands being dirty when you were little. 
I am going to miss you, your huge heart, laugh, stories, and hugs.  Till I see you again. Love always

Justin Wayne, I'm still lost with words.... I remember the very first time that I met you. I had went over to my mom's and there you were. Lol.. I won't ever forget you. We had a lot of memories. May you rest in peace.. Never forgotten.... Love you Justin Wayne. 
        Love Always,
       Amanda Flynn...

I’m so sorry for your loss. Hardworking and funny.He was a good friend.My prayers are with you all

Felt like a father to me, rest in piece Justin🕊️

Justin
I will miss your smiles, bear hugs ,  your beautiful sunrise and  sunsets. You had the best heart and the best stories.  I will miss your calls and texts. 
Love you always and forever.

Justin was always such a sweet energetic kid. We have so many fun and funny memories with Justin. Baseball was always a fun time to get to spend with our boys year after year. We are so sorry for your loss. 
Karen Atha

Kind of out of focus.  Just us getting to visit the grandparents together.

Celebrating Thanksgiving in 2020. Not a surprise he’s wearing a Friday the 13th shirt :) love and miss him immensely.

Memorial Service

Survivors include his parents, Janabel Votaw of Greenwood and Floyd Gunter of Sawyer, Oklahoma; three sisters, Paige Votaw, Mindy Votaw and Alexa Ralston and her husband, Blair; one nephew, Frankie Ralston and many other family and friends.

OBITUARY

Justin Wayne Gunter

July 17, 1985 – March 18, 2026

McConnell Funeral Home

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