Wesley Eugene Hunter

Wesley Eugene Hunter, 98, was called home to be with his Lord on September 8, 2025. Born on November 30, 1926, in Strawn, Kansas, Wesley was the son of Harry Myrl and Beulah (Cunningham) Hunter. His life was marked by quiet strength, deep faith, a strong work ethic, and a steadfast devotion to his family.

Wesley began his working life early, helping with farming from 1941 until 1945, when he enlisted in the United States Navy. During World War II, he served with honor aboard the USS Radford (DD-446), and later on the USS Klondike (AD-22), where he worked in the ship’s sheet metal shop. After the war, he assisted in decommissioning the USS Leslie L. B. Knox (DE-580) and the USS Riley (DE-579). He was honorably discharged on August 10, 1946, in Norman, Oklahoma.

After returning home to Strawn, Wesley resumed farming and later began a long and dedicated career with the Long-Bell Lumber Company in Burlington, Kansas. He worked faithfully for the same company in various locations for 33 years, retiring in July 1985. His quiet diligence and steady presence were hallmarks of both his professional and personal life.

On October 18, 1947, Wesley married the love of his life, Ella May Decker. Their marriage was a partnership built on faith, mutual respect, and shared joy. Together, they raised six children and built a life centered around family, church, and community. Wesley was a devoted member of St. James Catholic Church and a proud member of the Knights of Columbus. His faith guided every aspect of his life and was a source of strength throughout the years.

Wesley had a deep appreciation for the simple pleasures of life. He loved woodworking, fishing, and traveling the country with Ella May in their RV. Together, they explored every state in the U.S. except Alaska and Hawaii—not just once, but twice—creating countless memories along the way.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Ella May; his parents; one brother; a son-in-law; two daughters-in-law; a granddaughter; and a special great-aunt, Ethel L. Van Horn. Though he experienced great loss, Wesley remained a pillar of quiet resilience and grace.

Wesley leaves behind a lasting legacy in his six children: Wayne Hunter, Sarah Baxter, Gayle Gant, Karen Jackson, Philip Hunter, and Marlene Sams; a sister-in-law, Retha Hunter; 13 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; and 3 great-great-grandchildren; as well as many beloved cousins, nieces, and nephews. His love and guidance will continue to live on in each of them.

A Rosary will be held at 7:00 p.m. on September 10, 2025, at Primrose Funeral Home, 1109 N. Porter Avenue, Norman, Oklahoma. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on September 11, 2025, at St. Philip Neri Catholic Church, 1107 Felix Place, Midwest City, Oklahoma. A committal service will occur Thursday, September 11, 2025 at 2:00 PM at Gracelawn Cemetery, 1407 North Boulevard, Edmond, OK 73034.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Gospel of Life Dwelling Association 4113 S. Eastern, Moore, OK, 73160.