Mr. Corey Shantez Hunter Sr.

On August 14, 1979, Napoleon and Shirley Burton Hunter welcomed a God-given prodigy—their beloved son, Corey Shantez Hunter—into the world. On November 6, 2024, Corey entered into eternal life, leaving a legacy of service to God and mankind through music. Corey was reared in the nurturing community of McNeil, Arkansas and attended Bethany Baptist Church where he professed his relationship with Christ. Over the years, he served faithfully in many capacities, including the Deacon Ministry. His extraordinary musical gift became evident at an early age. At just five years old, Corey was captivated by the piano, as he sat with Bethany’s musician with unwavering focus during Sunday services. His insatiable passion for “tickling the ivories” led him to teach himself to play by ear, a gift that soon earned him the recognition as the "musician’s musician." Corey’s talents knew no bounds. From mastering the piano, organ, and keyboard to teaching voice, harmonies, and musical techniques to choirs and individuals alike, he transformed ordinary choirs into exceptional vessels of praise. Under his leadership, choirs thrived, ordinary voices blossomed, and every note reverberated with praise. His gift of music in worship was magnetic and resonated with a divine purpose, bringing glory to God. His mantra, “We sing to an audience of One—and that is God Himself,” encapsulated his ministry of excellence. Maestro Corey Hunter’s influence extended far beyond the walls of Bethany Baptist Church. He played for individuals or any choirs who needed his assistance. His unique style and dedication to the craft transcended borders, reaching masses across south Arkansas and neighboring states. In February 2024, Corey was honored with the prestigious Sound Award as Choir Director of the Year, a testament to his remarkable contributions to gospel music. Music was Corey’s calling and ministry. He approached every note with passion and purpose, ensuring that each time he played, he glorified God. Beyond music, Corey was a compassionate servant and it steered him to comfort the sick, console the bereaved, and lift the downtrodden. Wherever he was needed, Corey showed up with grace, humility, and a willingness to serve. Corey graduated with honors from Stephens High School in 1997, earning countless accolades that reflected his academic excellence. He began his college education at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville before returning to Southern Arkansas University (SAU) in Magnolia. While at SAU, he became a member of the Lambda Kappa Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity and earned his B.B.A. degree in Business Management in May 2001. Driven by his passion for service and personal growth, Corey later completed an A.A.S. degree at the Commonwealth Institute of Funeral Service in Houston, Texas. Corey’s professional journey was as diverse as it was impactful. He began his career as a teenager at Brookshire’s and later held roles at Walmart, Lockheed Martin, and Aerojet Rocketdyne (now L3 Harris). He served as an Apprentice Embalmer and Funeral Director with his current employment at R. L. Reed Funeral Home, while also working as a Life Insurance Salesman. Corey’s professional endeavors were marked by dedication, integrity, and a commitment to excellence. In 1998, Corey met his incomparable heartthrob, his beloved gem, Tomika Reed. Their bond grew into a beautiful partnership, and on May 8, 2004, they joined together in holy matrimony. Their 20 years of marriage were filled with love, laughter, and shared purpose. Together, they raised three brilliant, adorable children: Corey Jr., Caleigh, and Caisyn, who were the light of their lives and a testament to their love. His father; paternal grandparents: Napoleon Sr. and Emogene Hunter; maternal grandparents: Jessie J. and Christen Burton; three uncles: Charles, Jesse, and William Burton preceded him in death. Left to cherish the memories and legacy of Corey are his loving wife, Tomika Reed Hunter; his beloved children, Corey Jr., Caleigh, and Caisyn Hunter; his devoted mother, Shirley Hunter; and his brother, Austin (La’Esha) Hunter. He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Paulette Reed; father-in-law, Randy (Rosemary) Reed; and sister-in-law, Kim (Darwin) Moore. Cherished aunts include Marilyn Sue Burton, Gladys (Johnny) Ross, and Francis Hunter; uncles include Frederick (Pat) Hunter, Robert (Gladys) Hunter, Otis (Patricia) Burton, Elwood (Desi) Burton, Kenneth R. Burton, and James Burton. Their beloved dog, Coco Shanelle, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, R. L. Reed Funeral Home Family, Bethany Baptist Church Family, the McNeil community, and all surrounding areas also hold his memory close to their hearts. Though Corey’s earthly song has ended, his music will forever echo in the hearts of all who knew him. His faith, love, divine gift of music, and service to God have left heart prints on all he encountered. Rest well, Maestro, in the eternal presence of the One for Whom you so passionately played—the audience of One—God Himself! The Life and Legacy services of Mr. Corey S. Hunter, Sr. will be held Saturday, November 23rd, 2024, at the Columbia District Auditorium in Magnolia, Arkansas at 11:00 a.m., with interment to follow at 23rd Psalms Cemetery in Magnolia, under the direction of R.L. Reed Funeral Home, LLC. Dr. D.L. Hegler, Officiant. Dr. Christopher Davis, Eulogist. A visitation will be held Friday {Nov. 22nd}, from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m., at R.L. Reed Funeral Home in Magnolia. “For precaution due to the COVID-19, Masks are Encouraged but Not Required While Attending the Services and During Visitation Hours. However, wearing masks ensures safety for you and others. Thank you.”

Mr. Corey Shantez Hunter Sr.

August 14, 1979 - November 6, 2024

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Mr. Corey Shantez Hunter Sr.

August 14, 1979 - November 6, 2024

Obituary Notification

What We Do

Flowers & Gifts

About Us

Resources

Obituaries

Grief & Healing

Contact Information