Cecil W Hunnicutt

Cecil W. Hunnicutt, 89, went to his heavenly home on Sunday, December 23, 2012, after an extended illness. He was born in Asheville on September 23, 1923 to Ulysses S. and Theodosia Bartlett Hunnicutt. Other than his parents, he is preceded in death by siblings, Clarence, Amanda, Lawrence, Glenn, Hilliard and Frank. Survivors include his loving wife of 63 years, Wanda Dolores Justice Hunnicutt, a son, Robert Hunnicutt (Karen), a daughter, Cindy Hunnicutt Parker (Jeff); four grandchildren, Natalie and Sterling Parker, Travis and Clint Hunnicutt; a sister, Vaulty Hunnicutt and a host of nephews, nieces and cousins. A veteran of WWII, Cecil served in the Pacific Theater where he earned several medals including a Bronze Star, Bronze Arrowhead, Expert Rifle Marksmanship; four Battle stars and the Heroic Meritorious Award. He grew up in Asheville, working on the family farm. As a child he would rise early, do his chores and then go to school. This way of life established a strong work ethic that remained with him all his life. He worked for 23 years at Sams Lincoln Mercury as Body Shop Manager then Service Manager. He also worked at Dorato Dodge (later to become Asheville Dodge) as the Body and Paint Shop Manager until his retirement in 1998. He took pride in his work and would go the extra mile to satisfy his customers. He was an avid sportsman, enjoying hunting, golf, baseball and basketball of which he excelled in. He was key in establishing youth leagues in the Haw Creek Community and spent endless hours volunteering his time. He helped to develop a ball field from a cow pasture where East Asheville leagues still play today. Cecil was a humble man of few words and was never boastful of his many accomplishments. He was a member of Morningside Baptist Church and a lifetime member of VFW post 891. The family would like to thank Dr. Tom Rennard and staff for the many years of excellent care; the staff at Fleshers Fairview Health Care and the staff at John F. Keever Solace Center. A funeral service will be held Wednesday at 2 pm in the chapel of Groce Funeral Home on Tunnel Road with Rev. Earl Jones and Rev. Dr. Joe Babb officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Burial will be in Bethesda UMC Cemetery where he will receive military honors. Flowers are appreciated or memorials may be made to Morningside Baptist Church, 14 Mineral Springs Road, Asheville, NC 28805; or to John F. Keever Solace Center, P.O. Box 25338, Asheville, NC, 28813.