Committal
Hunter was proceeded in death by his Nana, Vivian Pauline Dean Ensley and his uncle Anthony Gehle. Hunter is survived by his parents, Rhonda and Michael Ensley of the home, grandparents Haven & Carol Ensley of Morganton, Millie & Richard Goodell of Franklin, NC, and Richard & Karen Gehle of Okeechobee, FL. Uncles Randall Gehle & wife Annette, David Ensley & wife Kim, Sean ONeill and wife Danielle, Aunts Vicki Todd & husband Mark, and Renee Palmer & husband Joel. Four first cousins also survived, Michael Todd, Allie Todd, Kaitlin Ensley, and Cassidy Lakes.
Hunter was a person of many accomplishments as he was the Class of 2022 Valedictorian at Freedom High School, an Eagle Scout, and had a vast array of other accomplishments. His mind was keen and powerful and even at Duke University he had a mind capable of challenging the strongest scholarly thinkers. To demonstrate his range of capabilities he was also an accomplished equipment operator. Hunter was able to do anything that he cared to do and anything he set his mind to.
The loss of such a young and promising person defies explanation and understanding. Hunter found this world full of hypocrisy and pain. He is now in his forever home with the Lord Jesus and his Nana with whom he is playing Secret Agent. Hunter was our heartbeat, and our hearts will never beat right again. We will miss him and love him forever and be joyous when we meet him again standing by his Nana and our Lord Jesus. The world is a bit less bright, a bit gloomier, and will never be the same. Please pray for us as we learn to cope with a loss much too early in life.
A celebration of Hunters life will be held at First Baptist Church of Morganton, North Carolina on his birthday, June 18th, 2025, with a visitation starting at 9:30am and the service starting at 11:00am.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Visitation
June 18, 2025
9:30 a.m. - 11 a.m.
First Baptist Church Morganton
Service
June 18, 2025
11 a.m.
First Baptist Church Morganton
Committal
N/A
Tribute Wall
Leave a tribute for Hunter Lee Ensley.
I remember Hunter from kindergarten. The first thing that comes to mind when I think of Hunter was his individuality and immense love for bugs. I had a crush on him for much of 3rd and 4th grade because of his tremendous intelligence. Hunter was not only a pleasure to have in class because he was funny and kind but also because of the way he stimulated my curiosity and because he thought differently from me. I haven’t spoken to him for a very long time but I think about him often. I often thought about trying to reconnect and ask him for a coffee sometime; now I have immense regret I never did. My sincerest condolences to you Mrs. Ensely especially. It was easy to see how involved you were and how much you cared about Hunter due to your commitment to student life at FHES. The coming days I will be keeping all impacted in my prayers.
I was absolutely heartbroken to hear about Hunter’s passing. I had the true privilege of teaching him in both 7th and 8th grade, and I will never forget the kindness, intelligence, and quiet strength he carried with him. He was one of those students who stays with you long after the school year ends. Hunter made my classroom a better place simply by being in it. He was thoughtful, respectful, and had such a genuine way of making others feel seen. Watching him grow during those years was a gift, and I am devastated by this loss. Please know I’m holding your family in my heart. I am so very sorry, and I hope you can find some small comfort in knowing how much he was admired and cared for. With deepest sympathy, Brittany Buchanan
I'm very sad and troubled to hear this. He was an amazing young man. My prayers are with all of you.
I was so saddened to receive the news from Haven. Mike, I can't even imagine what you are going through. Praying for all of you that God will comfort you at this time and that He will help you make sense of this. God Bless Rod Allen
Hunter, it was a pleasure to know you, teach you, and learn from you. I loved your enthusiasm for learning, your wit, and sense of humor. The world was a better place with you in it, but it's also a better place because you were in it. You are so missed and loved. I will cherish the memories of us learning together. Rhonda and Michael, thank you for sharing your kind, inquisitive, and vibrant son. Our prayers are with your family for comfort, healing, and peace.
Sincere condolences for the loss of Hunter. I do not have words to express my grief, I cannot imagine the state of the family and loved ones. Praying for strength. May his soul rest in peace.
Our deepest sympathies for the loss of Hunter. The staff of Valdese Cleaners
May his memory be a blessing.