Eugene "Corky" Hunter

COOKEVILLE CHAPEL - Eugene “Corky” Hunter passed away Tuesday July 28, 2026 at Grandview Nursing Home in Cookeville, Tenn. He was the youngest of five children born to Edward Boone Hunter and Minnie Ethel Lee Hunter on Dec. 15, 1928, in Cookeville.

While growing up, Corky tended to a large assortment of pet dogs, cats, ducks, and a goat who had to be rehomed after butting the wrong person. He attended Central High School and graduated from Tennessee Polytechnic University (TTU) with degrees in U.S. history and education. Corky attended First Baptist Church for several years.

Before attending college, he worked for several years at the old Maddux & Proffitt department store, which was located on the city square.

Corky married Frances Irene Smith in 1957. She survives him, along with their two children, Don Marshall Hunter and Cathy Sue Hunter (Michael Rhode), as well as two granddaughters, Christina Marie Hunter of Chattanooga and Claire Elizabeth Rhode of Arlington, VA.

He served in the National Guard from 1948 - 1961, and was honorably discharged as a 1st Lieutenant. Corky began his teaching career at Monterey High School and eventually became principal. Wanting to get back in the classroom, he later taught social studies classes, primarily U.S. history and economics, at Putnam County Senior High School.

When not grading papers, he enjoyed visiting parks and boating on Dale Hollow Lake with family. After retiring, he and Irene spent many years traveling throughout the U.S. and tending their large garden. He also enjoyed keeping up with current events and reading history, particularly anything related to WWII, and loved thrift store finds such as interesting baseball caps and pins.

A funeral service honoring Corky will be held Friday July 31, 2026 at 1 p.m. in the Cookeville chapel of Hooper Huddleston & Horner (59 N. Jefferson Ave). Interment will follow in the Crest Lawn Memorial Cemetery.

The family will receive friends Friday 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Cookeville Rescue Mission or charity of your choice.

Hooper Huddleston & Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-6111. Share your thoughts and memories at www.hhhfunerals.com.