WILSON, N.C. (WTVD) — Loved ones and friends of former North Carolina Gov. Jim Hunt gathered at First Presbyterian Church in Wilson on Friday afternoon to say their final goodbyes.
Hunt died last week on his family farm in Wilson at 88.
He was the longest-serving governor in state history; in office from 1977 to 1985 – and again from 1993 to 2001.
Hunt was remembered for his impact on the state but was best-known for his efforts in education, namely the Smart Start program, a topic he continued to focus on through his work with The Hunt Institute.
“We were over at their house one time, and I said, I know you go to big high schools, but we would love for you to come and speak at my son’s graduation at a small school, Chatham Central High School. And he said, ‘Oh, I love to come to all schools.’ And he came. It was a big deal to have a governor of North Carolina at Chatham Central High School,” said Becky Loflin, a family friend.
Separately, he played a key role in helping grow the state’s economy, overseeing a period of massive growth and development, including the creation of the NC Biotech Center.
On Friday, a mix of friends, family, lawmakers, and members of the public showed up to pay their respects.
While the media was not allowed inside the service, ABC11 spoke with some who attended.
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“It is very rare today. There’s so much divisiveness in our state and in our country, too,” Loflin said. “But Jim Hunt could bring everybody together in agreement. He had that trait to do that.”
Hunt grew up just outside Wilson, and a high school in the county is named after him.
“They should always be honored to have somebody like Jim Hunt that lived in the community and did so much for (it),” Loflin said. “He always stayed so humble, even with the greatness he had. Everybody admired him so much. He was always laid back and ready to talk to everybody.”
Hunt is survived by his wife, Carolyn, four children, and his brother. His daughter, Rachel, is the state’s lieutenant governor; a role he himself held from 1972-1976.
Hunt is also survived by 10 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
Gov. Josh Stein is inviting the public to sign a book of condolences for Hunt’s family.
The book is lying at the North Carolina State Capitol in the rotunda.
The book is lying at the North Carolina State Capitol in the rotunda.
People can write a brief message from now through Jan. 2.
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