AMIE

For Vian native Julie Spears Hunter, life has come full circle. A 1988 graduate of Vian Public School, Hunter has returned to her hometown to give back to the same community that shaped her.

After earning her degree in psychology from Northeastern State University (NSU), Hunter began a career in mental health, working as a child and adolescent case manager. It was during her time at NSU that she met her husband, Stacy Hunter, a football player for the university. The two married and settled in Jacksonville, Texas, where they raised their three daughters — Jessica, Jennifer and Jordan.

Hunter continued her education at Le-Tourneau University in Longview, earning her alternative education degree. She went on to teach for Jacksonville ISD for about a decade before life led her back to her roots in Vian.

In 2012, Hunter faced one of life’s toughest challenges when she became a widow. She and her daughters returned home to Vian, where her younger two daughters attended school. Hunter soon began teaching Head Start classes before being hired by Vian Public Schools as a Pre-K teacher — a position she still holds today.

“I love teaching at the school I attended,” Hunter said. “It’s special to walk the same halls where I once learned.”

Her impact now spans generations. She’s had the joy of teaching all four of her grandchildren: Carmello (11), Kainen (6), Kylen (5), and Amari (4).

Beyond the classroom, Hunter recently ventured into small business ownership. From her home, she operates a body sculpting business, offering nonsurgical body reshaping and toning services.

“I’ve really enjoyed stepping out of my shell and meeting new people,” she said. “It’s rewarding to provide a service close to home.”

Hunter’s love for Vian runs deep. She finds joy in serving her community, spending time with family and helping care for her father, Delbert Spears — though she admits, “he’s a hard man to keep up with!”

When she’s not teaching or running her business, Hunter enjoys reading and resale shopping with her sister, Janet.

“I love living in the town I grew up in,” she said with a smile. “Raising my girls here and now seeing my grandkids be Vian Wolverines — it’s a blessing.”