WILMINGTON — Justin Hunter Stroupe, 28, affectionately known as “Hunter” to all those around him, left us suddenly Wednesday, April 11, 2018.
Hunter was born June 22, 1989, to Teresa and Ricky Stroupe in Wilmington, N.C.
As the baby of the family, Hunter spent his childhood adored by his sister’s girlfriends and was always adopted in as a part of the team. Discovering theater in high school, Hunter was a force to be reckoned with on the stage.
He lit up Laney’s Honors Drama performances until his graduation in 2007. Hunter adored cooking and turned his passion for spicy food and the hottest of chicken wings into a job when he began working at Wild Wing Cafe.
Much like the rest of his loving and gregarious family, Hunter had a huge personality that burst at the seams and shone through most of all when he smiled. It was impossible to be around Hunter and not end up laughing, singing, dancing, or, quite frequently, all three. He irrevocably changed the way those around him speak, as it is quite difficult not to find yourself using his own brand of communicating to the world.
He had a soft spot for animals and constantly brought new pets into the family home, but none were as special to him as his beloved chocolate lab, Lucy.
Hunter always knew how to make someone laugh, even if it was to make fun of himself in the process. As long as everyone was smiling around him, Hunter was happy.
He was an avid lover of movies and TV shows, especially if there were people around to share them with. If you were around when Hunter watched something he had already seen 100 times, he would want you to sit down and watch it with him as he recited most, if not all, of the lines.
This was especially true for the Golden Girls, and there will never be another who loves that show more than Hunter. Movies and music affected Hunter greatly, and he was constantly putting together playlists, and before that, mix C.D.s, of all the music that spoke to him. It was common for Hunter to tell you of a song, movie or character that reminded him of you, because he was always thinking of others. With a huge heart, Hunter loved his family and friends deeply and unconditionally.
Hunter is survived by his devoted and loving parents, Ricky and Teresa; dedicated sister, Samantha, and her husband, James West; grandmother, Dorenda Long; and his lifelong loyal friend and love, Casey Kent. There are also many more friends and family left behind who will miss him greatly.
A visitation will be held for friends and family from 6 to 8 p.m., Friday, April 20, at Coble Ward-Smith, 3915 Oleander Drive, Wilmington. A funeral service will be held to honor Hunter’s life at 2 p.m., Saturday, April 21, at Coble Ward-Smith.
The family greatly appreciates the outpouring of support and love we’ve received throughout this most trying of times. Hunter loved you all.
Share online condolences with the family coblewardsmithwilmington.
