Arvil Dean Hunter

Arvil Dean Hunter, age 84, passed away peacefully on April 15, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of service, strength, and love. Born on February 22, 1941, in Sarah, Mississippi, to Minnie Evelyn (Harper) and Lloyd Hunter, Dean led a life marked by devotion—to his country, his community, his faith, and most of all, his family.

Dean is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Joanne, who was his constant companion and unwavering support throughout his life. He was the proud father of two children: Chris Hunter (Rose Ann) of Brentwood, Tennessee, and Tammy Carlson (David) of Lakeland, Tennessee. He also leaves behind seven grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren, who brought him great joy and pride.

He is also survived by his sisters, Ann Boling and Joyce Wells, and his brother, Bobby Hunter. He was preceded in death by his sister, Gladys Lanier and his brothers, Roy, Hoyte, Clarence, Gene, Lester, Ray, and James.

In 1958, Dean joined the United States Army, where he served with honor and distinction, including combat duty in Vietnam. He was wounded in action and was awarded two Purple Hearts. Among the many honors he received during his military career, he was most proud of being awarded the Bronze Star with “V” device for valor in combat. His physical ability and marksmanship skills were further reflected in his selection to the 1965 U.S. Biathlon Team, where he competed nationally and internationally. After his injuries, he returned to serve as the shooting coach for the 1972 Olympic Biathlon Team. He retired from the Army after 22 years of service with the rank of Master Sergeant.

A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Dean served faithfully in many roles, but his favorite calling was that of Scoutmaster, where he inspired and mentored young men with life skills and leadership.

After retiring from the Army, Dean continued his dedication to public service as a U.S. Postal Service mail carrier and later as a park ranger for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Arkabutla Lake. More than thirty years ago, he helped establish what would become the Arkabutla Physically Challenged Hunting Association (APCHA), providing opportunities for disabled hunters to enjoy the outdoors—a mission close to his heart.

A man of many talents and passions, Dean was a big game hunting guide at the Circle K Ranch in Dolores, Colorado, a skilled gunsmith, an award-winning archer, a gardener, a coach, an instructor, and a gifted artist. But above all, he cherished time spent with his family. His deepest joy came from being with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and most especially, his eternal sweetheart, Joanne.

Arvil Dean Hunter will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. To those who knew him best, the greatest compliment he could give a man was to tell him “you’re a good man”, most of us could honestly reply “you are a better man.”

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations in Dean’s memory to the:

Arkabutla Physically Challenged Hunting Association
Arkabutla Lake Office
3905 Arkabutla Dam Road
Coldwater, Mississippi 38618
Attention: Rob Hoff – Hunter Memorial
Checks payable to Arkabutla Physically Challenged Hunting Association (Hunter Memorial)

Please click the link below to view the service live.

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82729135276?pwd=UmHjZyFZfIUQpCpNrbXWtCPYV5b1Ur.1

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