Dennis Lloyd Hunter

Dennis Hunter ObituaryObituary published on Legacy.com by House of Paradise Cremation and Funeral Services, Inc. - Erie on Feb. 26, 2026.For 86 years, Dennis Lloyd Hunter lived a life shaped by faith, family, and service. He leaned on the teachings of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, walking with a quiet strength and a heart committed to doing good. His journey was one of resilience, devotion, and a deep love for gospel music that touched countless lives. And woven through every chapter of his life, was the rich, joyful sound of gospel music.His story began in Monroe, Louisiana, where he was born the first of six children to Rev. Ambus H. Hunter and Josephine (Foster) Hunter. In 1949, the family migrated north to Erie, Pennsylvania, a move that would shape the rest of Dennis's life. There, under the guidance of his father, he accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized-a sacred moment that would anchor him for decades to come.As a young man attending Academy High School, Dennis was already learning what it meant to take responsibility and lead with integrity. In 1958, he married Dorothy F. Clayton (now deceased), and together they began building a home filled with love. Six children-Darrell, Denise, Duane, Dwight, Dale, and Doretha-soon filled their lives, each one becoming a source of deep pride. Dennis worked diligently for more than 25 years at Perry Plastics Company. But he didn't just work-he stood up. As a union representative and contract negotiator, he became a trusted voice for fairness and better working conditions, earning respect for both his courage and his character. Years later, in 2001, Dennis married Ruth Landingham. Together they blended their families with care, building a home rooted in faith and mutual devotion. His commitment to his church family at Antioch Missionary Baptist Church remained steadfast. As one of its 96 charter members in 1959, he helped lay the foundation for a ministry that would flourish for generations. Whether serving as Chairman of the Trustee Board or offering quiet counsel, Dennis gave his time and wisdom freely. But perhaps one of the most remarkable chapters of his story began when he was just 13 years old. In 1952, his father placed him behind a microphone for the "Prophet Hour" on WJET. Known then as "Little Dennis Hunter," he discovered something that would become a lifelong calling. In 1967, he partnered with Mr. Charles Smith to launch "Songs of Zion" on WWGO 1450 AM. What started as a radio program became a ministry that spanned more than five decades. Sunday morning from 5:00 to 10:00 a.m., while many slept, Dennis was already awake-sharing gospel music, encouragement, and hope across the airwaves. For over 53 years, he missed only 12 broadcasts. That kind of faithfulness cannot be taught; it is lived. In its final season, "Songs of Zion" reachedlisteners around the world through iHeartRadio, extending his voice far beyond the city he loved. For Dennis, music was never confined to the studio. He sang. He promoted. He encouraged others. He helped form The Gospel Crusaders with family and friends, traveling throughout Pennsylvania, Ohio, and New York from the mid-1960s through the early 1980s. They recorded music and lifted theirvoices in praise wherever they went. He also managed the Sayles Singers, investing in local talent and ensuring that gospel music continued to thrive in his community. Along the way, Dennis experienced both joy and sorrow. He was preceded in death by his beloveddaughter, Doretha; his sister, Dorris Moffett; and his brothers-in-law, Joel Moffett and Eugene Hamilton. Yet even in loss, his faith remained steady.Today, the story he began continues through those he loved most-his devoted wife of 25 years, Ruth A. Hunter; his sons: Darrell L. Hunter (Ana), Rev. Duane F. Hunter (Kicole), Dwight D. Hunter (Vickie), and Dale L. Hunter; his daughter, Denise A. Hunter-Riley (Walter); and stepchildren: Annette Sims, Judy Jones (Charles), and Christopher Sims. He is also survived by his brothers: Ambus Hunter III (Philomena), James C. Hunter (Karen), and Gerald P. Hunter (Dorothy Ann); his sisters: Virgia Ann Hamilton, Marcia Hooks, and LavitaWilliams; faithful sisters in-law: Annie Pigee, Patricia Helm, and Mary Simon; as well as a special sister in-law, Mozella Hunter, and brother in-law, John Henderson; 27 grandchildren, 38 great-grandchildren, two great-great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends who will forever love and remember him.Dennis Lloyd Hunter's life was more than dates and accomplishments-it was a testimony set to music. Though the microphone is now silent and the early Sunday broadcasts have ended, the melody of his life still plays on in every heart he touched.To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.