Brian Lane Gunter

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Services for Brian Lane Gunter are scheduled for11:00 A.M., Monday, March 30, 2026, at the Alexander Gray Funeral Home Chapel in Wilson with Randy Simmons officiating. Interment will follow at Keller Cemetery north of Wilson. 

Brian was born August 4, 1974, to Mr. Jerry Lane Gunter and Mrs. Retha "Coleen" (Bates) Gunter in Ardmore, Oklahoma. He departed this life Monday, March 23, 2026, in Oklahoma City. 

Raised in the Cheek community, Brian attended Lone Grove Schools except for one year at Franklin Elementary in Ardmore. He was an honor member of the Lone Grove graduating class of 1993. 

Brian attended Southeastern Oklahoma State University, where he majored in communications and piano performance, graduating in 1998. He was a proud member of the Chorvettes during his college years, and he loved being on stage. 

Brian ignored his mother's advice against becoming an educator, and what a blessing that was to scores of young people! Initially a substitute teacher in Ardmore, he took the state teaching exams and became certified in English, vocal music, and band. He had honed his teaching skills by patterning himself after the most effective educators he had known. He had an exceptional ability to recognize the potential in his young students and to help them channel their talents.

Initially hired by the Paul's Valley Schools as a vocal teacher, he convinced them to allow him to start a competitive speech program. It was here that Brian recognized his passion for teaching and coaching speech, patterning himself after his high school speech coach, Katie Kurtz.

Brian was recruited by the Lone Grove schools to revitalize their speech program. He teamed up with Fred Collins as the debate coach to dominate in Oklahoma speech competition. They were a respected coaching duo across the state and at national competitions. 

Brian also taught in Mesquite and Harlingen, Texas schools and at Ardmore High School. During this time, Brian's students collectively brought home 17 state team championships as well as their own personal victories in state and national competitions. Brian kept up with his students and rejoiced in their successes after graduation. 

Unfortunately, due to health challenges, Brian retired from teaching in 2021. At that time he was a Double Diamond member of the National Forensic League. This level of membership is based by merit of a coach's students' achievements in competitions.

Beyond his professional achievements, Brian's love for music was a defining aspect of his life. He was a treasure trove about music and drama. An accomplished pianist and a gifted singer, he delighted in gospel music. He enjoyed the personal outlet of working with the Ardmore Little Theatre, both in performing and directing. 

Brian's contributions as an educator and musician touched many lives, leaving an indelible mark on his community. Preceding him in death is his father, Jerry Gunter, who passed October 9, 2021. Survivors include his mother, Coleen Gunter; brother, Jeff Gunter; beloved nephews Ethan Cole Gunter and Jerry Don Gunter; many special friends, aunts, uncles, cousins, and past students. 

Pallbearers will be Jeff Gunter, Ethan Gunter, Michael Faught, Jason May, Wyatt Freeman, and Noel Collins. 

Visitation will be held from 2-4 P.M., Sunday, at the Alexander Gray Funeral Home in Wilson. 

Condolences and memories may be shared online at www.alexandergrayfh.com.