William Franklin Hunt, known to all as Bill, died peacefully in the home he built, surrounded by the family he loved, on June 24, 2025. Born in Alice, Texas, on May 29, 1932, to Roy Edwin and Alma (Listenbee) Hunt, Bill graduated from William Adams High School before answering the call to serve in the U.S. Army. While stationed in Charleston, West Virginia, one evening a pretty girl noticed the name embroidered on the western shirt of that Texas cowboy and said the two words that would shape the next 72 years: “Hi Bill.” He married that girl, Shirley Whitley, on August 3, 1954, and together they returned to Texas, eventually settling in Stockdale.  Bill was a hardworking man, dedicated to providing for his family and serving his community. He was an active member of First Baptist Church of Stockdale and a proud member of the Cherokee Nation. Over the years, he served as Master of both Stockdale Masonic Lodge #470 and San Marcos Masonic Lodge #342, Patron of Stockdale Eastern Star, and as a member of the Stockdale ISD Board of Trustees.  In retirement, Bill took up woodworking and created many beautiful pieces that his family cherishes. His days were spent riding his “go-go” out to the garden or shop in the morning, followed by afternoons of “westerns and siestas.”  He is preceded in death by his parents, his brother George, and his daughter Margie, who now rests near him. He is survived by his beloved wife of almost 72 years, Shirley, and his children: W.F. (Billy) Hunt Jr., Brady (Dawn) Hunt, and Lisa (Charlie) Rozier. His legacy lives on in a lively group of granddaughters and great-granddaughters (plus a couple of boys they managed to bring in).

A graveside ceremony will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at Nockenut Cemetery, led by Pastor Kevin Skinner and under the direction of Eckols Funeral Home. Visitation will begin at 10:30 a.m. Chad Jurisic, Eric Kuntschik, Ethan Mendel, and Randy Kay will serve as pallbearers.

“A hardworking man leaves behind more than brick and sweat. He leaves a foundation of strength, love and purpose.”