Hamilton Blues Lovers: Tommy Hunter Was Canada’s Country Gentleman, RIP

Friday, July 10, 2026

Tommy Hunter Was Canada’s Country Gentleman, RIP

"Canada’s Country Gentleman," Tommy Hunter passed away on July 2, 2026 in London, Ontario. Our condolences to his family friends and fans.

He was an essential part of Canada's Country Music scene thanks, in part, to The Tommy Hunter Show, his long-running radio & TV program.

Here is the official obituary:

HUNTER, Thomas (Tommy) James, CM, OOnt
March 20, 1937 – July 2, 2026
Thomas (Tommy) James Hunter passed away peacefully at his home in London, Ontario on Thursday, July 2, 2026, in his 90th year.
He was the beloved son of the late Edith and James Hunter. Tommy was the loving father of Jeff, Greg, and Mark. He will be deeply missed by his grandchildren, Tyler, Karli, Bradley, and Nicole, as well as his great-grandchild, Mason. Tommy is also fondly remembered by his longtime business manager and friend, Brian Edwards, and his wife Barbara.
Known all over the world as "Canada’s Country Gentleman," Tommy was a legendary figure in music and broadcasting. For 27 consecutive years, The Tommy Hunter Show welcomed millions into their living rooms on CBC Television in Canada, and for 10 years, it broadcast across the United States on The Nashville Network. A proud member of the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame, Tommy was also honored as a Member of the Order of Canada and the Order of Ontario for his immense contributions to Canadian culture.
The family wish to thank the staff of University Hospital, Parkwood Hospital, Fox Hollow, and McGarrell Place for their care and compassion. Visitation will take place at Needham Funeral Service, 520 Dundas Street, London, Ontario on July 9, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm, and again on July 9, 2026, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. A Private Family Funeral Service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers donations to the Humane Society of London & Middlesex would be appreciated.

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Brad Hails (Killin' Time Band)

RIP Tommy Hunter, I was fortunate enough to spend some time on the road with you and my grandfather when I was a kid and you both showed me some great memories. Tommy lent me a big ol’ country acoustic guitar to use for my first lessons and actually gave me a 57 fender deluxe amp and some microphones when my grandfather and I helped you move many many years ago. Foolishly I sold that amp when I was a teenager and will always regret it. Last time I saw you was at my grandfathers funeral. Some of those times I spent with the both of you will stay with me for life and taught me lessons I still use today in my own career.

Juno Awards

It is with great sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Canadian country music legend Tommy Hunter. Over a career spanning more than six decades, Tommy became one of the country's most recognizable entertainers. As the beloved host of The Tommy Hunter Show, he welcomed generations of Canadians into country music while providing a national stage for both established and emerging artists.
A pioneering figure in Canada's music industry, Tommy played a defining role in the growth of Canadian country music. A three-time recipient of the RPM Gold Leaf Awards, the forerunner to today's JUNO Awards, he was recognized early for his outstanding contributions to Canadian music and remained a steadfast champion of Canadian artists throughout his career.
Tommy's contributions to Canadian music will continue to be felt for generations to come. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, colleagues, and all those whose lives were touched by his music and remarkable career.