James D. Gunter, 80, of Christopher, IL, died at 4:25 p.m. Saturday, March 29, 2014 surrounded by his family at Herrin Hospital, Herrin, IL.       Mr. Gunter was born on October 15, 1933 in Benton, IL the son of Harry “Tater” Gunter and Viola L. (Sanders) Gunter Harris.  He married the former Agnes “Peggy” Owens on June 16, 1955 and she survives.       Mr. Gunter was a United States Army veteran.  James was a retired chemist.  He was a loving family man and enjoyed listening to music, dancing, golfing, and taking care of his pets.       Surviving relatives include his wife, Agnes “Peggy”  Gunter, two daughters, Gay L. Nutty and husband Michael of Manchester, TN, Shelia K. Simion and husband Lane of Christopher, IL, two grandchildren, Jayme Tubbs and husband Brandon of Hopkins, KY, Taz Simion of Christopher, IL, a brother, Curtis Gunter and wife Connie of Benton, IL and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.       Mr. Gunter  was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Sharon Kays, and a brother, David Gunter.       Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, April 1, 2014 and Hobbs-Johnson Funeral Home & Crematory, Benton, IL.  Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, April 1, 2014 at the funeral home.  Burial will be in the Masonic and Odd Fellows Cemetery, Benton, IL, with military honors performed by the Benton American Legion/V.F.W. and the Marion National Guard Honor Squad. Memorials may be made to Hospice of Southern Illinois.