James C. Hunter

James Christopher Hunter of Woodbury, Connecticut, beloved husband and eternal soulmate of Courtney Hunter, passed away on March 9, 2026. Born on November 22, 1975, Jim spent his early childhood in Centerville, Ohio, where he cherished his time outdoors with his grandparents, Fred and “Sweetie.” At the age of eight, he moved to Connecticut with his parents, Fred and Carol (Harper) Hunter, and his older brother Paul, and made Westport his home for much of his life.

A graduate of Southern Connecticut State University, Jim was a dedicated environmental science teacher at Wilton High School. He also worked at the Fairfield, Connecticut and Woburn, Massachusetts locations of Wild Birds Unlimited and served as a Homer Award–winning Garden Department Supervisor at the New Milford Home Depot. His true sanctuary was Earthplace Nature Center in Westport, where he met Grit Ardwin, who became a second mother and mentor, teaching him about the region’s flora and fauna. There, he became a beloved local figure, leading guided walks and sharing his knowledge with countless visitors.

Drawing on his deep connection to the natural world, Jim managed the greenhouse and garden at Wilton High School and led enthusiastic field studies at Allen’s Meadows. An exceptionally intelligent and curious observer of nature, he developed a keen talent for wildlife photography and became a gifted birder. He took great pride in leading the annual Christmas Bird Count in the Branford territories, inspired by his mentor Noble Proctor. Following in that same spirit, he served on the board of the Connecticut Ornithological Association, helping to promote interest in Connecticut’s bird life.

Jim found boundless joy as a “FurDaddy” to his beloved rescue cat, Manny Boots the Shadow Hunter. He loved walking Manny on a leash and bringing him to schools to meet students, often being greeted with shouts of “Hey! It’s Manny’s Dad!” at Brass City Charter School. In addition to his wife Courtney, he is survived by his aunt Donna (Harper) Case and her husband Bob Case, his sister-in-law Wendy Hunter, his niece Lauren and nephew Chase, his cousins, and many dear friends, mentors, and chosen family members. He was predeceased by his brother Paul Hunter.