HUNTER, Joseph Thomas (J.T.)

The White Mountain Independent, Show Low, Arizona - 05/21/2010 Joseph Thomas Hunter died May 15, 2010 in Vernon. J.T. was born March 5, 1921 in Roscoe, Texas and relocated in Gilbert as a child. He graduated from Gilbert High School. He and Marie married July 22, 1941. In Dec. of 1941, he enlisted in the United States Army and served in the Pacific during World War II. After the war, they settled in Gilbert, where he served on the Gilbert City Council for a number of years. In 1953, J.T. moved his family to Wellton where he operated the Standard Oil Bulk Plant. While there, he served on the Governor's Advisory Committee for Governor Jack Williams. In 1969 he assumed the Standard Oil Distributorship in Blythe, Calif. He later became a partner in HH and JJ Custodial Business in Blythe. Retiring in 1987, J.T. and Marie moved to Vernon. He was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in many callings. He was active in the Kiwanis Club in Wellton and Blythe. In Vernon he worked tirelessly to improve the water system in the community. Throughout his 89 years he had a strong understanding of the importance of integrity and work, of being resourceful, and of service to his family, friend, neighbors and his community. He loved his family, he loved his Church, he loved his country, and he loved his friends. He is survived by three daughters Janine Marie Hackett, Judy Lynn Hunter and Marla Jo Olson (Stewart); nine grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren; as well as sister Dorothy Jane Nash and nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife of 67 years, Marie Nicoll Hunter, parents Albert and Eula Hunter; brother Albert Hunter Jr. and sister Stella Mae Hunter. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m, Saturday, May 22, at the Vernon Chapel of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints with the visitation to beginning at 9 a.m. Burial will be at the Vernon Cemetery. Owens Livingston Mortuary of Show Low handled arrangements. Those who have special memories and would like to send private condolences or sign an online guest book are invited to visit Web site www.owenslivingstonmortuary.com.