QUEENSBURY – James W. Hunt, 68, of Queensbury, passed away on May 19, 2021 at his home with his family by his side.
Born on October 17, 1952, in Glens Falls, he was the son of the late Stanley L. and Janet (Walkup) Hunt.
Jim was a graduate of South Glens Falls High School, class of 1970. He then graduated from Norwich University in 1974 and received a Bachelor of Art’s degree in English and education.
In 1970, while still in college, he and his father, Stan, started Tree Care by Stan Hunt, Inc., a well-known area firm, which he operated until September 2018, when he retired.
Jim served active duty with the United States Air Force from 1975 until 1980. He received his pilot training at Webb Air Force base in Big Spring, Texas. When he returned home, he continued operating the tree care business, of which he became President.
During his military career, Jim also resided in Big Spring, Texas and Merced, California.
On February 23, 1980, he married Belinda Thompson in Caribou, Maine.
Still wanting to serve his country, Jim became active in the Air National Guard and became a pilot in the 109th Air Wing out of Stratton Air National Guard Base, in Schenectady. He was a command pilot of LC-130H aircraft, serving both polar ice caps. In 1997, he flew Sir Edmund Hillary and the New Zealand Prime Minister, the first and only head of state, to ever fly to the South Pole. He was awarded the Meritorious Service with Oak Leaf cluster and the Air Medal, for his service to our nation.
He was very active in civic endeavors in this area as a member of the Rotary Club in Glens Falls, former chairman of the board for LARAC, and former board member of the New York State Arborist Association. He was also a Paul Harris Fellow and a member of Christ Church United Methodist in Glens Falls. Jim enjoyed and actively sponsored the South High Marathon dance each year.
Jim loved to hunt deer and elk, enjoyed coaching youth hockey and collected antique chainsaws.
Besides his parents, Jim was predeceased by his brother, Craig A. Hunt and his brother in law, Geoffrey Winters.
Survivors include his wife of 41 years, Belinda Thompson, his children, James M. Hunt and his fiancé, Jen Fuller and children Owen and Bri; his daughter Emily and her husband, Chris Welsh and their children; his mother in law, Betty Holdsworth; his brothers, Curtis R. Hunt and Gary L. Hunt; his sister, Tia R. Winters; his sister in law, Carolyn Sullivan-Hunt; several nieces, nephews and cousins.
At the family’s request, there will be no calling hours.
A private interment, with full military honors, will take place at the Gerald B. H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery in the town of Stillwater at a later date.
Jim’s family suggests that memorial donations in his memory be made to the American Diabetes Association, 50 Colvin Ave., Albany, NY 12205.
Jim’s passing leaves a huge hole in our hearts, but we have so many happy memories! Belinda, Jimmer, Emily and families you are in our prayers and have our deepest condolences. Blessed beyond measure that we can call you extended family. Hugs and prayers to each of you and Jim we know you are smiling down on them and holding them close during this very difficult time.
So sorry for your loss of such a good man. He was a likable and humble man. I was a customer and had several talks with him and remember him fondly. God Speed….be blessed with Good memories of a good man.
Belinda and Family
Was sorry to hear of Jims passing, my heart aches for you love you guys Were hear if you want to talk May god be with you at this time. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you love you Tony and Diana
Jimmy, You will be greatly missed by all who knew you! Godspeed! God bless!
Our sincere condolences on Jim’s passing.
Belinda and family , our prayers are with you all at this sad time. So very sorry . May God Bless and give you strength Love Gail and Peter
Very sorry to hear about Jim. I believe he’s in a better place now. you are in my thoughts and prayers.
I am saddened to see that Jim has passed away. Being a long time customer I had several times visiting with him, taking care of the customers well. He was a humble and caring person. My condolences to all his family.
So sorry for your loss.
My condolences to Jim’s family and friends. Thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time.
We were so sad to hear of Jimmy’s passing. Andy and I are keeping you all close to our hearts and in our prayers.
We shared many homerooms and classes at South High. He could make any class an adventure. I am very sorry for your loss. He was a kind and thoughtful man.
Belinda and family
My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time. One of my best memories is when you stopped by the salon to share your first little bundle of joy. The stars in your eyes were brilliant with the love of your first child. Jim was a kind person in high school and accepting of all. When talking with him you really felt that he was listening. I know the last few years have been challenging but you were a gift of love to him always.
God’s Peace and strength.
Charmaine
Our sincere condolences to all his family with the passing of Jim.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. With sincere sympathy
From Richard Sears, family and crew
I’m with you FOREVER BIG MAN – I know what your HEART is all about. YOUR more than SPECIAL. Thanks for always being kind and good and extra nice to me. We had FUN and talks that counted many important days. We were LOYAL to each other. That’s hard to find. I CHERISH all our younger days and even now. Only me and you knew are caring true BOND. All my deepest love. Rest ETERNAL now you deserve that PEACE.
We are just learning of Jim’s passing . Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.Growing up with Jim in our old neighborhood I will always have a fond memory of him.peace be with you .
Our deepest sympathies to the family in the loss of JIm. Prayers for peace and healing in the days ahead.
So sorry for your loss Belinda,he was a good man and will be remembered as such.
Belinda,
My sincerest condolences to you and your family. Jim was a big supporter of the SHMD and I will miss talking with him about flying airplanes.
I am so very sorry for the loss of your husband Belinda. Sending you hugs, love and prayers for comfort ❤️🙏🙏🙏
Belinda
Dick Baylys came by to tell us of the news. From the Elk hunters, our deepest sympathy. God Bless you & your family.
J&P Connolly
Jimmy, rest in peace my friend! Thank you for your Service in the USAF to this country. Norwich Forever! My the memories bring smiles to the faces of your family and friends.