Roderick A. Hunt Jr.

Roderick “Rod” Albert Hunt Jr., 78, of Stuart, Florida, set sail on his final voyage on April 21, 2025. Born in Newark, Ohio on October 16, 1946, Rod lived life with a sailor’s spirit, a sharp wit, and a heart big enough to float a boat.

He joined the U.S. Navy at 17 and served in the Vietnam War, where he found a love for working on tugboats and being out on the water – a passion that never left him. After his service, he built a career as a roofer. He eventually retired into the life that suited him best: that of a sailor, friend, and all-around marina legend.

Roderick was preceded in death by his parents, Roderick Albert Hunt Sr. and Marie Smeal. He leaves behind a loving crew, his brother Randy Hunt and sister, Robyn Blair; children, Rhonda Ann Hunt and Roderick Brian Hunt; his grandchildren, Lillianne Holcomb and husband Peter Holcomb, Samantha Broyles and husband Dustin Broyles. Christopher Robinson, and Skylar Hunt; and his great-grandchildren, Shayna Broyles, Whitney Broyles, Declan Holcomb, and Aurora Holcomb.

Rod was funny, crass, and unforgettable. He could charm just about anyone – especially the ladies – and never met a stranger he didn’t turn into a friend. A simple man with no real wants or desires, Rod found happiness in the little things: time on his sailboat, a good story, and his beloved motorcycle – which he loved to tinker with, rechrome, and bring back to life piece by piece.

A celebration of Rod’s life will be held on May 3rd at 5PM at Port Salerno Marina, Stuart, Florida. Expect good music, better stories, and a whole lot of laughter – just the way he would’ve wanted it.

In lieu of flowers, donations are appreciated. And if you really want to honor him? Make a new friend or fix something with your own two hands.