Jean Ann Hunter
Jean Ann Hunter, a longtime resident of the Syracuse and North Webster areas, passed away quietly at 3 a.m. Friday, Oct. 28, 2022, at home. She was 78 years old.
Born on Nov. 27, 1943, to Hugh Barber Jr. and Ruth V. (Wilkinson) Barber, she was born in Huntington. Her family moved to North Webster when she was quite young; she grew up in the North Webster United Methodist Church and graduated from North Webster High School with the class of 1961. She later graduated from Fort Wayne Commercial College.
She was a hard worker and went to work at Weatherhead right out of school. She is also remembered for her time at Pacemaker Buildings, the Revolving Closet and Kay’s Next to New Consignment Shop where she spent more than 20 years.
More personally, she is remembered for her cooking and baking skills. She rarely knew a stranger, happily hosting Christmas Evening Open House for many years. She and Larry welcomed as many as 100 people to share her baked treats, dips and holiday specialties; neighbors, friends, family, on-duty public servants and community members would look forward to the event each year – all were welcome.
She enjoyed gardening and was an accomplished gardener of vegetables, flowers and all things green. Her garden was even featured in the Syracuse-Wawasee Garden Walk. She also enjoyed music of all kinds, as well as traveling, camping, and reading. She had beautiful penmanship and was known for writing letters and sending cards. More than anything, she enjoyed time spent with her family.
Married to Larry Hunter on Dec. 27, 1982, Larry survives at home. Also surviving are three children: Dena (Brad) Chaney, Nancy Ladd and Jason Ladd, all of North Webster; three stepchildren: Perry (Darlene) Hunter, Warsaw; Randy Hunter, Syracuse; and Shelly (Dan) Clodfelter, Syracuse; sister: Peggy (Howard) Mossing, Fort Wayne; six grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in passing by her parents; brother: Rex Barber; and a special niece: Lenea Anderson.
Visitors may gather at Owen Family Funeral Home, 8056 E. 500N, North Webster, from 4-6 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 2. Beginning at 6 p.m., Pastor Dennis Judy will officiate Jean Ann’s Life Celebration service.
Memorial gifts may be given to Turkey Creek Fire Territory or to Dementia Society of America with envelopes available at the funeral home.
Titus Funeral Home, Warsaw, is handling arrangements.