Michael Gunter Jr. Obituary
We bid farewell to Michael Gunter Jr. of Herrin, Illinois, whose journey of life gracefully concluded on February 8, 2026 at the age of 47. Michael touched countless lives with warmth and kindness, leaving behind cherished memories that will forever echo in hearts. Family and friends are welcome to leave their condolences on this memorial page and share them with the family.
He was predeceased by: his son Ben Anakin Gunter; his sister Kathy Gunter-Manering; and his grandparents, Bennie, Almeta Gunter, Floyd Jones and Norma Pierce.
He is survived by: his parents, Lana Jean Williams (Jones) and Michael Edward Gunter (Sheri); his wife Lacey Gunter (Leeper); his sons, Payton and Eric Gunter; his parents-in-law, Becky Leeper and Jody Leeper; his siblings-in-law, Shelby Leeper, Chad Manering (Amy) and Mason Mize; his niece Claire Manering; his nephew Carter Manering; his stepsiblings, Michael Wohlford and Rebecca Bergman; and his stepnephews, Michael and William. He is also survived by his aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members and numerous dear friends.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial gifts be made to St. Louis Children's Hospital in loving memory of Ben, whose courageous battle with leukemia touched Michael's heart deeply.
