SANTA FE, NM — Stephen A. Hunter, 65, passed away on November 26, 2024, at Scott’s House Community Hospice in Santa Fe, NM, with his loving daughter Elizabeth and son Paul by his side.
Stephen was born in Portland, Maine, and grew up in Wilmington, Massachusetts. A lover of the great outdoors, he found joy in hiking, camping, going to the beach and embracing everything nature had to offer. His adventurous spirit and love for life were boundless. Stephen had a deep bond with his former wife, Maria Hunter (nickname Charo), with whom he shared a lifelong friendship and connection. Together, they built a pit home near Taos, New Mexico, in the 1980s and later returned to New England. However, New Mexico’s enchanting landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant art always held a special place in his heart, and it became his final home.
Stephen was a man of deep faith and commitment to his religion. He participated in Christian church communities, serving in leadership roles, choir, and youth groups. His passion for reading the Bible, writing prayers, and journaling reflected his profound love for God.
A social, adventurous soul, Stephen pursued many careers throughout his life, working on railroads, as a painter, car salesman, and in the retail and restaurant industries. He was known for his outgoing personality and his pride in serving his community-earning the affectionate nickname “Steve-O.” A sports enthusiast, Stephen especially loved football and cherished watching Broncos games with his son Paul.
Stephen had a deep connection to music, embracing all genres and finding meaning in its lyrics and melodies. He especially enjoyed listening to Genesis, Michael W. Smith, and Ozzy Osbourne/Black Sabbath, whose music deeply moved and inspired him. One of his most cherished memories was attending Black Sabbath’s final concert, “The End” tour, at Madison Square Garden in 2016 with his daughter Elizabeth. Music became a shared bond between them, and even in his final days, they listened to music together, connected across the miles.
“Don’t need no astrology, it’s inside of you and me, you don’t need a ticket to fly with me, I’m free. – Over the Mountain by Ozzy Osbourne
Stephen is survived by his mother, Theresa (Beaudry) Hunter; his former wife, Maria Hunter; his children, Paul Hunter and Elizabeth Hunter; and his sister, Pamela (Hunter) Cote, and her husband, Donald Cote. He was predeceased by his father Delbert Hunter, in 2017. Stephen is also survived by his many loving family members and friends across many states, including cousins Beth (Beaudry) Stilphen, Becky (Beaudry) Marshall, Jim Beaudry, Laura Boyce, long time friend Dan Shaffer and Dee Bond with whom he shared a cherished relationship.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Holy Cross Hospital, Anvoi Hospice Care and Scott’s House Community Hospice for their compassionate care, ensuring a peaceful and loving passing for Stephen.
A memorial will be held in late spring/summer in both New Mexico and on the East coast, where friends and family will gather to share memories and enjoy Stephen’s favorite food in his honor. Details about the memorial will be shared at a later date.
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