Grady Ledford Hunter

July 01, 1933 - November 08, 2021

Obituary For Grady Ledford Hunter

How do you say goodbye to a life well-lived? The Hunter family lost its father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend November 8, 2021. Grady Ledford Hunter, 88, made a peaceful transition to his heavenly home from his earthly home which he built. He was born July 1, 1933 in Central, SC, the youngest of 8 children. He is predeceased by his one brother and five of his sisters. He is survived by his children, Linda and Al, their families, and also by his sister, Clara Pinion.

Grady had a varied work life beginning in his father’s barber shop where he had his barber’s license when he was 15. His passion, however, was masonry work. He laid brick for over 40 years most of which was in Dunn, NC. His work remains on homes, churches, fireplaces, walls, and planters throughout the town. After 24 years in Dunn the family moved to Raleigh in 1979 where Grady continued his work as a general contractor. His last and favorite project was his daughter’s Victorian home where he once again designed and laid the brick on the fireplace. He loved to sit for hours and watch the fires burn. As his building career was winding down Grady expanded his interest in woodwork. This developed into a full-time hobby resulting in award winning tables, roll-top desk, gun cabinet, frames, cutting boards, bookshelves, mini-kitchens for children, a barn headboard for his grandson, and numerous other projects. Most of these he did for the love of the work and gave them to lucky recipients! One of his most unusual creations was building his own coffin. He took the project from cutting down the walnut tree to drying the boards, constructing the coffin, and winning a blue ribbon for it at the State Fair. He said he always lived in houses he built and couldn’t stand the thought of spending eternity in someone else’s creation. He also built burial urns and took pride knowing he provided a beautiful space for the ashes of beloved friends and classmates.

While living in Dunn, Grady became a member of Palmyra Lodge #147 where he served in many different roles including Master and coaching new members through their degrees. He was very proud of achieving the rank of 32nd degree Mason. In 2017 he was presented a certificate celebrating 50 years as a Grand Mason.

Grady was the best Daddy ever to his daughter, Linda, and his son, Al. He had a very special relationship with his grandsons, “bus buddy” Brandon, and “Bobcat buddy” Andrew. He “adopted” Linda’s college roommate, Cappi Stanley, and had a special place in his heart for Andrew’s wife, Jennifer. He never met a stranger and cherished each and every friend. He tried very hard to do something nice for someone else every day. He will be missed.

Grady has requested no flowers. Memorials may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children. In true Grady fashion he will be delivering his own pre-taped eulogy at his memorial service Friday, November 12, 2021 at 1:00 at Renaissance Funeral Home, 7615 Six Forks Road, Raleigh, NC 27615. The family will gather at 12:30 for a time of greetings and goodbyes which will include some of Grady’s favorite music and photos. A private burial service will follow at Raleigh Memorial Park.

A Viewing and Funeral Service coordinated with a slide show that Grady produced will begin promptly at 12:30 p.m.

Services

12 Nov

Funeral Service

12:30 PM

Renaissance Funeral Home 7615 Six Forks Road Raleigh, NC 27615 Get Directions »

by Obituary Assistant

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Condolences

March 03, 2022

Steven Baker

Linda and Family - It was with sadness that I recently learned of the passing of your father last November. Though we had our differences, I always had a profound admiration of your dad. He was a good person, and his heart was always in the right place. My most sincere condolences.
November 18, 2021

Karen Dunn

Oh Dear Grady,I just learned of your passing and I will miss you so much.Your kindness,your great laugh,big blue eyes and great advice will stay with me forever.I always think of you when I see the birds living in the beautiful bird house you made just for me many years ago.Thank you for being you. Love and kisses,,,Karen Dunn from Pam's Farmhouse.
November 15, 2021

Susan Mellott
November 15, 2021

Glenda Rhyder

Linda, I am so sorry for your loss. Grady was a lot of fun to be with when I was growing up. I know you will miss him. Love you! My prayers are with you and the rest of the family.
November 13, 2021

Margaret Pate

Family and friends- Grady will be missed very much. I enjoyed sitting with him on the front row at Raleigh Auction. On arrival, he greeted everyone before taking his seat, we compared aches and pains, our favorite items up for bid, and he quietly won his well chosen gifts.
November 11, 2021

May Anderson

My husband Tom and I remember Grady well, although we are now living in Scotland. We saw him at "Raleigh Auction" and he always came over to talk to us and it was always a pleasure. We knew of his kind heart and generosity and although we didn't know him well, we much admired him. I am sure he will be sorely missed by many. May Anderson.
November 10, 2021

Joe Veasey

Brother Grady will be missed by all, I always enjoyed seeing him at the auction. He was a good friend and brother mason. Joe Veasey
November 10, 2021

Carolyn Laudati

Linda, and family, I am very sorry to hear of your loss. Your dad was a very special man and you have wonderful memories to keep in your heart forever.