John Herbert Hunt III

After years of being told they would not be able to conceive, God blessed them with their first child together. From the moment they looked into the sparking eyes of their handsome baby boy, they knew he was destined for something special. Affectionately known by family and friends as Lil John or LJ, he brought immeasurable joy to all who knew him.

John was raised in North and Northeast Portland, where he attended Sabin Elementary School and Beaumont Middle School. He later attended Jefferson High School, where he participated in football and wrestling before completing his education at POIC.

From an early age, John embraced life with a joyful spirit and a sense of adventure. Some of his fondest childhood memories were made riding bikes through the neighborhood, swimming on warm summer days, spending time at the beach, and enjoying countless laughs with his friends. He appreciated life's simple pleasures and found happiness in every opportunity to make lasting memories with those he loved.

John was also a devoted sports fan whose loyalty never wavered. He proudly supported the Portland Trail Blazers, cheering them on through every season. Whether watching a game with family or celebrating a victory, his enthusiasm for his hometown team was contagious and often brought loved ones together.

As he grew older, John's passion for serving others led him to pursue a career that reflected both his creativity and his heart. He had a true gift for cooking, hospitality, and building community. In 2014, he co-founded Stooping Burger, a food cart that gained national recognition for its innovative menu and unforgettable flavors. Following its success, John opened Union Burger in 2022, paying tribute to his Northeast Portland roots on the historic Union Avenue, now Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. In 2025, he co-founded Hustle Burger a name that honored the determination and perseverance he believed lived within everyone. While at Hustle Burger he worked alongside his nephew and cousins. Through his various business adventures, he met people with kindness, warmth, and genuine care. Customers returned not only because of the food but because of the personal connection he made with each person who came to his window.

John's relationship with God began at an early age as he faithfully attended church with his family and was baptized as a young boy. His faith remained a guiding force throughout his life. He found strength and fellowship through his weekly participation in the men's group, JADA (Jesus Against Drugs and Alcohol). Just days before his passing, John stood at the altar and publicly recommitted his life to the Lord—a powerful reflection of the faith that carried him throughout his journey.

Above all else, John was a devoted son, father, brother, and family man. He shared a special and unbreakable bond with his mother, Barbara, whose unconditional love, guidance, and unwavering support helped shape the man he became. Their relationship was one of the greatest blessings of his life.

John's greatest pride and purpose were his children. They were the center of his world, and he loved them with every part of his heart. He celebrated their accomplishments, encouraged them through life's challenges, and cherished every moment they shared together. His love for them was steadfast and unconditional, and that love will continue to live on in each of the.

He also treasured the lifelong bond he shared with his siblings. Through laughter, shared experiences, and unwavering support during life's joys and hardships, John found strength in his family. He believed that family was life's greatest blessing and made every effort to nurture those relationships with love, generosity, and compassion. Whether gathering for celebrations, sharing meals, or simply enjoying each other's company, John created memories that his family will forever hold close to their hearts.

John will be remembered for his infectious smile, generous heart, magnetic personality, unwavering faith, and his remarkable ability to make everyone feel seen, welcomed, and loved. His adventurous spirit, entrepreneurial drive, and deep love for family and community leave behind a legacy that will continue to inspire all who were blessed to known him.

John was preceded in death by his father, John Hunt Jr.; his beloved son, John Hunt IV; his brother, DeAndre Bradley; and his brother-in-law, Mario Mayes.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving mother, Barbara Jean Hunt; his sisters, Arnesha James, Endora Britt, Shahala Mayes, and Kemiyia Hunt; his brother, Donte Hunt; his daughter, Jaleah Hunt; his sons, Noah Hunt, Johntae Hunt; along with aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and a host of cherished friends whose lives were forever touched by his love and presence.

Revelation 7:14 ~

And I said unto him, "Sir, Thou knowest", and He said to me, "These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the lamb."