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Obituaries
John “Jay” Charles Gunter
John “Jay” Charles Gunter, 77, passed away on Tuesday, April 30, 2024. He was born on October 20, 1946, in Newport News, Virginia, to the late Charlie and Frances Gunter.
Jay was a lifelong resident of Newport News and a lifetime member of the Hampton Roads Jaycees, Progressive Club, and Peninsula Sports Club. He graduated from Ferguson High School, Class of 1966. Jay was a retiree from Newport News Shipyard after 42 dedicated years of service. He will be remembered as a supportive father, devoted husband, and an avid New York Yankees fan. He also loved to watch the Washington Commanders, Steelers, and UNC Basketball.
Jay was preceded in death by his parents and grandmother, Alma Ballentine. Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 49 ½ years, Gail Gunter; son, Thomas Gunter; daughter-in-law, Patrice Singh; two lovely grandchildren, Alvin and Frances; sisters-in-law, Reba Hayes and Verla Jones; brother-in-law, Jack Summerlin; and numerous nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends on Friday, May 3, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Peninsula Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, May 4, at 10:00 a.m. at the funeral home, with burial following at Peninsula Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the American Heart Association (https://www.heart.org/) or the American Cancer Society (https://donate.cancer.org/).
Although Jay’s physical presence is gone, his love and generosity will live on. May he rest in peace and be cherished in our hearts forever. The family wishes to thank MSA Hospice for their care and support.
Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.
5 Comments
So sorry to hear of Jay’s passing. I knew Jay from the early Hidenwood days when he lived on Corbin and I lived on Woodroof. At the time I was going to Hidenwood Elementary School. Jay always went out of his way to say hello to everyone and as years passed if he spotted you he was there with a handshake. Our prayers go out to Jay’s family and friends.
RIP Jay.
Randy & Martha Elder
Jay will be missed. Was a wonderful person. To know him was to love him. Very humble and friendly and always had a word of encouragement . Rest in peace friend.
Each time I met Jay, I looked forward to his welcoming smile and good humour. While we didn’t see each other often, he was a valued part of my extended American family of dear people and I will miss him. Gail, Tommy, Patrice and all of Jay’s family and friends, I am sad for you. I hope you will be comforted by the knowledge that Jay was loved by people across the world.
Jay was a very nice and cordial person throughout the times that I knew him in high school, and it’s sad to say this, but the last time I saw Jay, was at a funeral visitation as we crossed paths once again. My condolences go out to his wife, family and friends who remember him. RIP Jay.
It was a pleasure getting to know Jay as a fellow member of the Peninsula Sports Club. It was fun visiting with him at various Club events and “managing” the Yankees. He was a dedicated member of PSC for many years, A friend of the Club and others for sure.