Rice mourns loss of Fondren Library’s John Hunter

Rice University is remembering John Hunter, the science and engineering librarian at Fondren Library, who died Nov. 29.

JOHN HUNTER

Hunter began his career at Rice in 1980 and was known for his love of the university and strong commitment to customer service, Vice Provost and University Librarian Sara Lowman said in a message to the Rice community.

“John devoted 33 hard-working years to the university, dedicating himself to providing great information services, building a network of strong friends across campus and acting as an advocate for Rice students,” Lowman said.

Hunter also served as a mentor to many African-American students and worked closely in his early career with the Black Student Association, Lowman noted. He also volunteered at Texas Southern University, most recently helping them as an external reviewer for its university librarian search.

Funeral services for Hunter were held Dec. 6 at Jefferson Jr. High School in Jefferson, Texas. Fondren Library will celebrate Hunter’s service and friendship with a local observance in January.