Justin Hunter Stroupe

Hunter was born on June 22nd, 1989 to Teresa and Ricky Stroupe in Wilmington, NC. As the baby of the family, Hunter spent his childhood adored by his sister’s girl friends and was always adopted in as a part of the team. Discovering theater in high school, Hunter was a force to be reckoned with on the stage. He lit up Laney’s Honors Drama performances until his graduation in 2007. Hunter adored to cook and turned his passion for spicy food and the hottest of chicken wings into a job when he began working at Wild Wing Cafe.

Much like the rest of his loving and gregarious family, Hunter had a huge personality that burst at the seams and shone through most of all when he smiled. It was impossible to be around Hunter and not end up laughing, singing, dancing or quite frequently, all three. He has irrevocably changed the way those around him speak, as it is quite difficult not to find yourself using his own brand of communicating to the world.

He had a soft spot for animals and constantly brought new pets into the family home but none were as special to him as his beloved chocolate lab, Lucy. Hunter always knew how to make someone laugh, even if it was to make fun of himself in the process. As long as everyone was smiling around him, Hunter was happy.

He was an avid lover of movies and TV shows, especially if there were people around to share them with. If you were around when Hunter watched something he had already seen 100 times, he would want you to sit down and watch it with him as he recited most, if not all, of the lines. This was especially true for the Golden Girls and there will never be another who loves that show more than Hunter. Movies and music affected Hunter greatly and he was constantly putting together playlists and before that, mix CDs, of all the music that spoke to him. It was common for Hunter to tell you of a song, movie or character that reminded him of you, because he was always thinking of others. With a huge heart, Hunter loved his family and friends deeply and unconditionally.

Hunter is survived by his devoted and loving parents Ricky and Teresa, his dedicated sister Samantha and her husband James West, his grandmother Dorenda Long and his life-long loyal friend and love Casey Kent. There are also many more friends and family left behind that will miss him greatly.

There will be a visitation for friends and family on Friday, April 20th from 6 - 8pm at Coble Ward-Smith at 3915 Oleander Drive in Wilmington, NC 28403. A funeral service will be held to honor Hunter’s life on Saturday, April 21st at 2pm at Coble Ward-Smith.

The family greatly appreciates the outpouring of support and love we’ve received throughout this most trying of times. Hunter loved you all.