Guyla Hunt

Guyla Jean Hunt, 96, of Destin, Florida, formerly of Lake Worth, Florida and Bensenville, Illinois, passed away peacefully on November 21, 2025. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and artist, she leaves behind a legacy defined by love, creativity, and an enduring zest for life. Born on January 2, 1929, in Springfield, Illinois, to James Dale and Myrtle Templeman, Guyla grew up with Midwestern values that would shape her life and career. From an early age, she showed remarkable artistic talent, capturing beauty in the everyday through her drawings and paintings. That love of art stayed with her throughout her life, as she continued painting vivid landscapes, colorful floral studies, and insightful portraits - even into her nineties. Guyla was preceded in death by her husband, James Kenneth Hunt; her son, James Raymond Hunt (Gigi); and her parents, James Dale and Myrtle Templeman. She is survived by her daughter, Nancy Reed (John); her sons, John Hunt (Donna) and Thomas "Casey" Hunt (Bette); her grandchildren, Steve, Sasha (Marcin), Krystal (Gabe), John (Cassie), Danielle, Ryan (Erica), Stephanie, Kyla, Spencer (Tiffany), and Shane; as well as her 11 great-grandchildren; and dear friends who will continue to honor her memory through the stories, love, and art she leaves behind. Guyla married the love of her life, James Kenneth Hunt, a proud Pearl Harbor survivor whose strength and devotion matched her own. Together, they built a life filled with laughter, purpose, and family. Their home was always open to loved ones, and their partnership stood as an example of mutual respect and unwavering love and support. Though Ken preceded her in death, the love they shared remained the cornerstone of Guyla's life story. In both Illinois and Florida, Guyla enjoyed long and successful careers in real estate. Her dedication, honesty, and warmth helped countless families find homes where they would create their own cherished memories. Yet, it was her art and her relationships that most fully expressed who she was. A lifelong artist, she painted not for recognition but for joy - often gifting her works to family and friends, ensuring that pieces of her creativity live on in the homes of those she loved most. Guyla was a passionate traveler who embraced every opportunity to see more of the world. From cruises and cross-country trips to her frequent adventures in Las Vegas, she made each experience one to remember. In her eyes, every journey was a celebration of life's possibilities. She was also a devoted fan of professional baseball, cheering proudly for her beloved Chicago Cubs and Miami Marlins, rarely missing a game and relishing the thrill of competition and camaraderie the sport provided. She cared deeply for her family, always offering encouragement and love through every milestone. Guyla's warmth extended beyond words - she supported, celebrated, and believed in those around her, marking her as a source of enduring strength and inspiration to everyone fortunate enough to know her. Guyla Jean Hunt's remarkable life was one well-lived -full of beauty, discovery, and unwavering affection for the people she cherished most. Her spirit will continue to shine brightly, just as she painted it-with light, color, and love. A viewing will be held on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. with service at 11 :30 a.m. at Palm West Funeral Home, 110 Business Park Way, Royal Palm Beach, Florida 33411. Burial to follow at the South Florida National Cemetery, in Wellington, Florida at 1:30 p.m.