Ardena Lorraine Hunter

Hunter

Ardena L. Hunter, 94, of Decatur, Illinois, passed away peacefully at her home on January 23.

A visitation with family and friends will be at 10 am on Friday, February 6, 2026, at Central Christian Church (650 W. William St. Decatur, IL 62522). A memorial service to celebrate Ardena's life will begin at 11 am at the church as well. A graveside will be at Point Pleasant Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers the family ask for donations to be made to the Heart of Illinois Community Foundation link to donate https://cfmc.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=1238. Tanzyus Logan Funeral Service and Care is in charge of the arrangements.

Ardena was born on December 18, 1931, in Elizabeth, New Jersey, to Harry Marchant and Christina Patterson. She spent her working years as an auditor for Sears and Craftmasters. After retiring, Ardena dedicated her life to serving others, volunteering as a founder and administrator of God’s Shelter of Love, where she faithfully served for 25 years. Through her tireless dedication, she helped expand the shelter and establish Blessingdales Thrift Store, giving countless hours to support women and families in need and helping many rebuild their lives.

Ardena was a member of Church Women United and the Decatur Women’s Club, and a devoted supporter of World Vision. Her compassion, faith, and commitment to service touched many lives and left a lasting impact on the community.

Ardena is survived by her daughter, Diane (Bob) Young of Decatur, Illinois; her sister, Jean Palmer; her grandchildren, Rick (Natalie) Matthews, Heather Matthews, Jennifer (Rusty) Loftus, Travis Tanzyus, April (Larry) Lehane, Stephanie Dukes, and Sarah Dukes; her great-grandchildren, Ian Tanzyus, Nicholas (Jordan) Bradshaw, Lindsey (Tom) Mundee, Cassidy Lehane, and Lauren Lehane; as well as five great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Harry and Christina Marchant; her husband, Oral Hunter; her brother, Arthur Marchant; her sister, Joan Bolen; her son David Dukes; her daughter, Deborah Matthews; and her grandson, Aaron Tanzyus.

Please sign the family guestbook.