Garry Hunter

Firefighter Garry Hunter, of the Talladega Fire and Rescue in Alabama, passed away on April 9, 2024, after a courageous battle with occupational lung cancer. He was 48 years old and had served with his department for 19 years. He also served with the Sylacauga Fire Department during his career. 

Hunter was born and raised in Gadsden, Alabama, and was one of four children. His parents were Gary R. and Phyllis Hunter. He started his career as a firefighter in 1995 and was hired in 2005 by the Talladega Fire Department. He graduated from the Pell City Fire Academy, which is accredited through the Alabama Fire College.  He always wanted to be a firefighter, even from a young age. He spent his career serving the people of his community with dedication and pride.  

Hunter met his future wife, Tammy, at the firehouse where he worked. She was conducting a taste test on a health product when she was drawn to his smile and laughter. It was love at first sight. He proposed at the Hoover Dam while on a 10-day road trip. They married and had a blended family of five children. He was a loving father who loved his family deeply and supported them unconditionally. He enjoyed spending time with his children and his grandchildren. He was a hero in his firehouse and in his family, especially to his wife, Tammy, who was with him until his last breath. 

Firefighter Garry Hunter is survived by his loving wife, Tammy, his daughters, Kaylee Lynn Hunter and Courtney Savannah Hunter, stepdaughter, Stephanie, stepsons, Dawson and Brayden, mother, Phyllis, grandchildren, Mackenzie, Aiden and Maddox, brother, Adam, sisters, Traci and Misty, and many other cherished family members and friends. 

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has paid off the mortgage on the Hunter family home through the Fallen First Responder Home Program.