Hunter William Hartung of Lexington, South Carolina, passed away on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at the age of 22.
His death has prompted an outpouring of grief from family, friends, and the broader Lexington community, many of whom have shared memories of a young man known for his quiet humor, athletic dedication, and warm presence.
Born on December 29, 2003, to Jeffrey Edward Hartung Sr. and Cynthia Lynn Hartung, Hunter grew up in Lexington and attended Lexington High School, where he competed on the cross country and track and field teams.
After graduating in 2022, he earned a scholarship to Lander University and ran cross country there for one season before transferring to the University of South Carolina.
At the time of his passing, he was studying Sport and Entertainment Management and had been working toward a December 2026 graduation.
Those who knew Hunter describe him as gentle and easy-going, with a creative streak and a sense of humor that often showed up on the front of his t-shirt collection. He was widely known as a passionate Gamecock fan, a trait friends say reflected his love of community and competition alike.
A Celebration of Life service will be held Saturday, June 20, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. in the Brown Chapel at Christian Life Church, located at 2700 Bush River Road in Columbia.
The church holds personal significance for the family, as it is where Hunter attended services. Following the ceremony, the family will receive friends, and a reception is planned at the home of Jeff Hartung from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. Bush River Memorial Gardens is assisting with funeral arrangements.
Loved Ones Left Behind and a Community’s Response
Hunter is survived by his parents, Jeffrey Hartung Sr., married to Sonja Hartung, and Cynthia May, married to Greg May. He also leaves behind his paternal grandmother, Charlotte Hartung, and maternal grandparents, William and Susan DeBlaay. His siblings include Holly Faulkenberry, married to Josh, along with Jeffrey Hartung Jr. and Susan Hartung.
He is also remembered by bonus siblings Tanner, Ethan, and Kate Davis, along with several aunts, uncles, and cousins, including Ben and Sam Bello.
Hunter was especially close with his nephew, Liam Faulkenberry, and was a devoted owner of his two dogs, Jackson and Sadie. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, Edward W. Hartung Jr., and his aunt, Jennifer Ann Hartung.
In the days since news of his passing spread, an emotional wave of support has appeared online, particularly through a Facebook post shared by his father, Jeff Hartung.
Dozens of comments from friends, former coaches, and members of the Lexington community expressed sympathy and offered prayers for the family during this difficult time.
Many described Hunter as someone whose presence put others at ease, a sentiment echoed throughout his obituary, which notes that his caring heart and genuine personality left a lasting impression despite his short life.
Instead of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made to the Lexington High School Booster Club in Hunter’s memory, a gesture that reflects his long-standing ties to the school’s athletic programs.
An online guestbook has also been opened for those who wish to share memories or condolences, with select entries planned for inclusion in a keepsake memory book for the family.
As the Lexington and Columbia communities prepare to gather this weekend, Hunter’s family continues to lean on their faith and on the support of those who knew and loved him.
