Dignity, elegance, courage, faithful, fashionista, and dynamic strength are just a few words which describes Ms. Beatrice Janet Hunter.  She transitioned to her eternal reward on May 29, 2024 surrounded by her daughters, Janet and Theresita, and her niece Jessyka.

Beatrice was born on December 27, 1934 in Eau Gallie, Florida to the late Catherine and Phillip Hunter.  Along with the education received at home, Beatrice graduated from Melbourne Vocational High School and grew to adulthood in Eau Gallie, Florida alongside her brother, the late Nathaniel Gardner.  Beatrice often spoke about how she started school before she was age eligible because she could read.  Add smart to the growing list of words used to describe Ms. Beatrice.

Beatrice received her undergraduate and master's degree from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University.  She completed all but her dissertation toward a PhD in Education from American University. Beatrice had a passion for learning, teaching, traveling and sharing her life experiences and wisdom with others. Her love for working with children and impacting their lives was made possible through a career that expanded over 40 years in the Washington, DC Public School System, Washington Technical Institute now the University of the District of Columbia, and Delaware State University.  For many years, Beatrice was a member of the National Council of Negro Women, Florida A&M University National Alumni Association, the District of Columbia School Counselors Association and the Washington Teacher's Union Local #6.

Ms. Hunter, Ms. Bea, Mom, Grandma, Friend are just some of the endearing names Beatrice acquired throughout her life.  Her life was finished with the same care as one of garments she purchased.  She was class personified.  Beatrice loved to dress and was always stopped by people asking about her ensemble.  She loved to give counsel and had a knack of giving it to you straight in a loving way as only Ms. Bea can. She loved her FAMU Rattlers.  She looked forward to attending the Florida Classic each year and staying in the heart of Rattler activities.   She loved to love.  Beatrice loved life, she never met a stranger, she was always willing to help those in need.  Beatrice loved to travel and has been to several countries including France, Amsterdam, Netherlands, England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland.   Her last trip was a jazz cruise with her daughter Theresita in 2022.  By the end of the cruise, Beatrice knew everyone on the ship and was making plans to see them on the next voyage.  Sadly, she was too ill to attend the 2024 trip.

Even as death's angel began to draw near to escort her sweet spirit to meet her Heavenly Father, Beatrice gave final instructions to her daughter to bring her home to Eau Gallie.  God called Beatrice home after a short battle with cancer and though she may no longer be with us in the physical, the impact she made in our lives will forever remain.

A legacy of love and compassion has been imprinted on the hearts of all those Beatrice touched.  Celebrating her life and legacy are her daughters, Janet Miller of Columbia, SC and Theresita Doyle of Baltimore, MD; sisters Carolyn Bowens and Jean Marie Scott, Melbourne, FL; sister-in-law Mae Ethel Hunter, Cairo, GA; five grandchildren, Jessyka Miller, David Doyle, Angelyka Miller, Samantka Miller and Shannon Doyle; seven great-grandchildren, Quadasha Price, Phillip Price, Jr., MyKaleb Price, Amari Doyle, Zoey Doyle, Jaylynn Johnson and Jordynn Johnson and her much loved and adored dog, Roscoe.  Proceeding her in death are her beloved parents, Catherine and Phillip Hunter; brothers Nathaniel (Naomi) Gardner and Jerome Hunter; grandchildren Phillip Price and Melkya Miller; and great grandson Hunter Roary; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousin and friends.

Whether she was telling a captivating story of her youth or offering sage advice, Beatrice had a way of making everyone feel valued and heard. She leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and cherished memories.  To God Be the Glory!

To watch Mrs. Hunter's Celebration of Life on Saturday, June 8th, 2024 at 12pm live please join this link: https://www.econdolence.com/join-viewneral?jc=10000:mCRIOJDgo8o6a1l6EBhdJxIPHDfaiLjw:VaS16zAPoiaWDnons0sW/w==:jGkbykC9bDx7pHPGB210Pg==