Bob Hunter, a former Texas state representative and longtime administrator at Abilene Christian University has died.

Hunter passed away Saturday according to statements from leaders of the university where he served.

RIP 29 103) #American #Former #state #representative, #longtime #ACU #administrator #Bob #Hunter 94 #dies #February 11, 2023 https://t.co/Oj6Vh9xHaK

— Jean Lebrun (@004nino) February 12, 2023

A great friend-maker

"Bob Hunter stands alone as the greatest friend-maker and ambassador in the history of Abilene Christian. His spirit of hospitality and love for his alma mater are known by generations of Wildcats who have him to thank for many of the best attributes that define ACU for visitors and alumni alike," ACU President Phil Schubert said.

"He seldom met a stranger and amazed everyone with his ability to remember names and details," Schubert added. "It is fitting that the Hunter Welcome Center is the front door to our campus, and we will never forget the example of Christian servant-leadership he lived for all of us to see and follow.”

STATEMENT ON THE PASSING OF
THE HONORABLE DR. BOB HUNTER

We not only lost a great man, we lost a true friend. Bob’s influence and positive impact on thousands of lives will be like “ripples on the water.” pic.twitter.com/1AVmKKzhnx

— Stan Lambert (@RepStanLambert) February 11, 2023

A great man

"We not only lost a great man, we lost a true friend. Bob’s influence and positive impact on thousands of lives will be like 'ripples on the water,'" Texas state Rep. Stan Lambert said.

"No one loved God, family, and ACU more than he did. His energetic yet humble approach to life and ready smile enriched the world around him," he added on Twitter.

According to his university profile, Hunter served as the state's vice chairman for the American Legislative Exchange Council and on the Task Force on Trade and Transportation.

Hunter also served on the Arts and Tourism Committee for the National Conference of State Legislatures, on the Intergovernmental Affairs Committee for the Southern Legislative Conference, and on the International Committee for the Council of State Governments.

He first won his House seat in a special election in 1986 for District 71. He served until 2007 with over 20 years of service.

First Republican to serve Abilene

When he won his House seat, Hunter was the first Republican since Reconstruction to represent the Abilene area in the legislature, according to the Austin American Statesman.

His many years of service to his state and to the university he loved was well-known and his presence will be missed by many.

He is survived by his wife, Shirle, their three children, Kent, Carole and Les and three grandchildren.