Sophia Gertrude Waddell Hunter, affectionately known as "Tootsie", was born on January 1, 1945, in Spartanburg, South Carolina to the late Annie Victoria Waddell and the late Hilton Collins. She was educated in the Spartanburg County School system and was a proud 1963 graduate of Lincoln High School.

Sophia was known as a true village mother, one who nurtured, cared for, and lovingly raised many children she did not birth. Her hands were gifted in the kitchen and she was celebrated for her delicious pound cakes, chocolate cakes, and her famous big pancakes. Quiet in spirit yet steadfast in love, she enjoyed babysitting, shopping, dining out, and watching her favorite soap opera, As The World Turns. Her favorite color was yellow, a perfect reflection of her warm and gentle presence.

She confessed Christ at an early age and was baptized at Travelers Rest Baptist Church. In later years she united with Victory Cathedral Ministries, where her faith continued to flourish.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Annie R. Jordan.

Cherishing her memory are her loving and devoted husband, James E. Hunter of the home. She leaves her life and legacy in the hearts of her children, James E. (Anita) Hunter of Inman, South Carolina, Lisa Hunter, Apostle Hilton Hunter, Susan Hunter, all of Spartanburg, South Carolina, and Brian L. (Kolenda) Hunter of Greer, South Carolina. She is also survived by her siblings, Mae Frances Waddell of Spartanburg, South Carolina, Fred M. Waddell of Spartanburg, South Carolina, Betty Talley of Moore, South Carolina, Bishop Jimmy (Carolyn) Waddell of Moore, South Carolina, Elder Shirley M. Waddell Mooney of Wellford, South Carolina, Larry G. (Jackie) Waddell of Moore, South Carolina, Apostle Paletha (Sandra) Waddell of Spartanburg, South Carolina, Delanor R. Waddell of Spartanburg, South Carolina, Angie P. Waddell of Moore, South Carolina, and Denise Collins of Washington, DC.

Her legacy will continue through her grandchildren, Tyler Fernandez, Darius Prysock, Jr., Dwight Hunter, J. Anthony Hunter, Kelsie Rhodes, Noah Hunter, Michael Hunter, Alexsis Hunter, and Hilton J. Hunter, II, along with six great grandchildren. She is also lovingly remembered by her goddaughter and niece, Brittney Waddell, and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

On the evening of Monday, November 17, 2025, Sophia transitioned peacefully. Her life and her love will forever be a testament in the hearts of her family and all who were blessed to know her. A beautiful life and a beautiful soul.