John Hunter Thomas, Jr.

We lost the world-renowned bassoonist, John Hunter Thomas, Jr, 62, of Huntsville, Alabama on Friday, August 24, 2018. He was born on June 20, 1956 in Gadsden, Alabama to John and Shirley (Brooks) Thomas.

Hunter has been an influence in the regional music community since his high school days. He was the director of personnel of the Huntsville Symphony, principal bassoon and teacher. He also mentored countless young musicians and he changed many lives.

He was preceded in death by his father John H. Thomas, mother Shirley Thomas and brother Mike Thomas.

He is survived by his five cats; brother Chris Thomas, and wife Karen; two aunts Alice and Raynell; three uncles: Monroe, and wife Alice, Allen, and wife Becky, and Jim, and wife Pat; niece Haley; five nephews: Andrew, Barney, Kyle, Josh, and Anthony; and sister-in-law Dorothy Thomas.

The family will receive friends for a Tribute to the Bassoon King Saturday, September 22, 2018 at the UAH Recital Hall.

In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to the Ark Inc. of Huntsville, Forgotten Felines, and scholarship donations can be mailed to Sewanee Summer Music Festival Attn: Hilary Dow Ward 735 University Ave. Sewanee, TN 37383. Please Include Hunter Thomas Bassoon Scholarship in the memo line.

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