There is a particular feeling when you sit down to dine on your favorite dish. Every detail from the smell, the plating, and even which utensils you use feels comforting yet exciting. Every once in a while, there is a person whose presence evokes those same feelings.

Kelly Alexander Hunter left this world as she came into it, quickly and powerfully. On June 12, 2026, she went to be with the Lord after a sudden illness. At just 58 years old, she made an incredible impact on all she met. Kelly was a good friend, a great mom, and an even better wife to her husband, John.

Her adventure began on June 28, 1967, in Dallas, Texas. Her parents, Joanne Washburn and John Alexander Jr., had their hands full, as she was quick-witted and ready to take on the world from day one. A few years later, her little sister Amy joined the mix. They would go on to be the best of friends. Kelly grew up in the tight-knit Canyon Creek neighborhood and graduated from Plano Senior High School, where she had a legendary career on the Speech and Debate team. Kelly earned degrees in marketing and finance from the University of Texas at Austin and an MBA in marketing from the University of North Texas. During her cherished time in Austin, she was a member of the Student Senate and the Alpha Phi sorority, where she made lifelong friends.

Stepping out into the world, Kelly quickly fell in love with John, whom she often referred to as the smartest and kindest man she ever met. Her proudest accomplishment was her family. Their two children, Chandler and Reagan, turned out to be both inquisitive and intrepid. Together the four shared many adventures, traveling to destinations near and far as Kelly believed the best education is to see the world.

Kelly's impact went beyond her community. As a lifelong volunteer, she led the PTA at her children's elementary school, held leadership positions in Junior League of Collin County, and donated her time to organizations including Women's Auxiliary for Children's Health, Chamberlain Ballet, and the National Charity League, where she volunteered alongside Reagan. She also served Christ United Methodist Church as a dedicated member. As a culinary enthusiast in work and life, Kelly was proud to have been recently inducted into Les Dames d'Escoffier.

Professionally, Kelly spent 35 years working in the field of public relations at Shiroma Southwest and later as the Vice President of Hospitality, Entertainment, and Consumer at Sunwest Communications. Her coworkers, clients and members of the media all knew that she would take their calls and make something great happen. Kelly's unparalleled work ethic and encyclopedic knowledge of countless subjects were exceeded only by the passion she had for her job.

Kelly did everything in life with a cheerful attitude and a warmth that made everyone feel special. Her network reaches every corner of the DFW metroplex and beyond as a talented storyteller, fabulous home chef, and a dedicated friend. She was loved and admired by all who knew her.

We are honoring Kelly's legacy at 11 a.m. Saturday, June 27 at Christ United Methodist Church in Plano, Texas.