Christine Ruth Hunter

Christine Ruth Zarlingo-Mathews-Hunter, of Little Rock, Arkansas,  peacefully passed away surrounded by her family on May 22, 2025. She was born on September 12, 1937, in Stuttgart, Arkansas, to Tony and Ruth Zarlingo. Christine graduated from Stuttgart High School in 1956. In 1957, she married Harold Mathews, and together they raised two children, Deborah Mathews Yarbrough and Bruce Wayne Mathews. Later, Christine married Kenneth Hunter, with whom she had two more sons, Kenneth John Hunter and Brian Christopher Hunter (known affectionately as Baby Brian). Christine was preceded in death by her parents; her daughter, Deborah Kaye Yarbrough; brothers Thomas Jo Zarlingo and Johnny Glen Zarlingo; and sister Annie Paulette Harrison. She is lovingly remembered by her sons Bruce, John, and Brian (and his wife Holly); her sister Holly Louise Sorrows; eight grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and a large extended family of nieces and nephews whom she cherished deeply. Christine dedicated many years to her career as a claims supervisor with the Association of Arkansas Counties. She had a true passion for gardening, spending countless joyful hours tending her yard. She also enjoyed bowling and treasured the time she spent with family and friends. Christine lived life with enthusiasm and a vibrant spirit, embracing every moment to the fullest. 

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to your favorite animal shelter in Christine’s memory. 

A visitation will begin at 12:00pm, Saturday, May 31, 2025 with service following at 1:00pm at Boyd Funeral Home Chapel.  Burial will be at Lonoke Cemetery.