Rev. Robert Francis Hunt

Augusta, GA – Rev. Robert Francis Hunt, went home to the Lord on Monday, July 18th, after a brief illness. A native of Greenville, SC, he was born on March 8, 1931, to Joseph and Wille Mae Hunt. He received his undergraduate degree from Presbyterian College in Clinton, SC, and his Masters of Divinity from Columbia Theological Seminary in Atlanta, GA. Following his first pastorate at Summerville Presbyterian Church in Summerville, SC, he pursued graduate studies and received his Doctor of Ministry from the University of Edinburgh, Scotland.

In 1962 he became the Senior Pastor of Greene Street Presbyterian Church in Augusta, GA, and served there for 29 years. In 1979, the church established a second location, called Greene St. West, on Wheeler Road in Augusta, and for the next ten years he led services and directed the work of both campuses. In 1991, the two locations separated, and he stayed with the west campus, which was renamed St. Andrew Presbyterian Church. He retired from St. Andrew in 2007, and subsequently served as Parish Associate for Reid Memorial Presbyterian Church, retiring from that position in March of this year, at the age of 91.

One of his greatest legacies was the founding of GAP Ministries in 1979, dedicated to serving the homeless and destitute in downtown Augusta, based in the Greene St church location. When the Greene St. church closed, GAP Ministries remained in the building, and continues that work there to this day.

His compassion for “the least of these” was central to his faith, and he had the heart of a humble servant. He was known for his compelling sermons, which were both profound and simple, as well as his quick wit and gentle spirit. His life was centered on three great loves: his love for the Lord, his love for people, and his love for animals, particularly his dogs. Having no immediate family of his own, he became a surrogate father and grandfather for many, sharing his warmth and his wisdom generously.

He is survived by a beloved cousin, Ann Bryant and her family, and life-long friends Betty Sue McKinnon and Keil Alderson. A service celebrating his life will be held on Saturday, July 23rd, at 1pm at Reid Memorial Presbyterian Church, with Rev. Dr. Brandi Casto-Waters, Rev. Nadine Ellsworth-Moran, and Rev. Ed Rees officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations made be made to GAP Ministries of Augusta, or the Augusta Humane Society.

Thomas Poteet & Son Funeral Directors, 214 Davis Rd., Augusta, GA 30907 (706) 364-8484. Please sign the guestbook at www.thomaspoteet.com