Lafonda W. Gunter

Lafonda W. Gunter, 74, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on January 9, 2026, after a courageous and difficult battle with ALS. While her passing leaves a deep ache in the hearts of those who loved her, we rejoice in the promise of eternal life and the peace she now knows. She was preceded in death by her parents, Roy and Elsie Wade; her brother and sister-in-law, Roger and Phyllis Wade; and a beloved friend, Linda Arvanites.

She is lovingly survived by her husband of 58 blessed years, Alfred “Hotpatch” Gunter; her children, Wyatt Gunter and Sara Gunter (Jon); four precious grandchildren, Jonas (Elisa), Kenzie (Stone), Airic (Mychael), and Becklyn; and two treasured great-grandsons, Lucas and O’zias, who were a constant joy to her heart.

Lafonda had a remarkable gift for loving beyond blood, welcoming many “children by other mothers” into her life. She shared special bonds with Stephanie Schrader (Jeff) and Sophie Gates (Cameron), along with many grandchildren she held dear, including Sara, Jack, Greta, Eli, and Madison. She deeply cherished her cousins, especially those who worshiped alongside her at Mountain View and Greenview Church of God. God also blessed her with faithful friends—Gina, Carolyn, Jan, Mike, and Teresa—who walked beside her in love and prayer. In her final season, she found comfort and gratitude in the compassionate care of Kara, Cheryl, and the entire hospice team, whom she came to love dearly.

A lifetime member and elder of Mountain View Church of God, Lafonda lived her faith daily through service. She devoted many years as Youth Director, was a faithful choir member, and remained active in the Women of the Church of God. She joyfully served her church family, including driving the beloved “powder blue” church van, always with a servant’s heart and a smile.

Lafonda graduated from E.C. Glass High School in 1970 and became an accredited records technician for 32 years. Her career included 17 years with Dr. Scott Garrett and 20 years with Lynchburg Nephrology. She also used her God-given voice in worship as a member of the “Old Stuff Band” and “At the Well.” Those who heard her sing knew her voice was a testimony in itself. Above all, Lafonda loved God, trusted His promises, and lived to serve her family, her church, and all whom the Lord placed in her path.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, January 24, at 2:00 p.m. at Mountain View Church of God, with Pastor Lonni Wickard and Associate Pastor Desi Justis officiating. Family and friends are invited to remain following the service for a time of fellowship and remembrance.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Mountain View Church of God, the ALS Association, or the American Cancer Society.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg is assisting the family.