Riverside mourns the loss of RUSD Boardmember Tom Hunt, who passed away one day before his 69th birthday

Tom Hunt passed away of cancer at Loma Linda one day before his 69th birthday. I last saw Tom Hunt at the Harada Elementary School renaming ceremony in May. Tom’s battle with cancer was well-known among friends and colleagues. His appearance on the hot asphalt was a pleasant surprise. He looked thin but not frail. So many of his friends were there and were eager to greet him and show him love. He may have been drawing a little extra power from the energy in the crowd, but the impression, at least on that day, was that Tom was doing well.

Tom Hunt’s passing leaves a significant void in the Riverside community, where he was a beloved figure. Known for his dedication to public service and education, Tom’s influence extended far beyond his official roles. His contributions were marked by a genuine passion for improving the lives of others, particularly the students of the Riverside Unified School District (RUSD), where he served with distinction for almost seventeen years.

“Tom served with distinction on the Riverside Unified School District Board of Education for over 15 years and took the helm as its President during one of the most challenging times for the School District, the COVID-19 pandemic. His calm, experienced, steady hand steered the District through this enormous crisis and into a much brighter future.” Said General Richard Roth, State Senator (via Facebook).

“We will not see the likes of Tom Hunt again. Cindy and I send our love and prayers to Tom’s wife, Geri, and their daughters, Whitney and Taylor. Oh, how he will be missed!”

Elected to the RUSD Board in 2007, Tom’s tenure was characterized by a commitment to student success and community engagement. He worked tirelessly to create opportunities for students, advocating for programs that bridged the gap between education and real-world experiences.

Tom had a reputation for supporting educators and students. Riverside City Teachers Association President Laura Boling remembers Hunt: “He was a lifelong friend who always put teachers first!”

Tom was committed to civic life. “Tom did so many things for Riverside. He served on Boards, including the California Riverside Ballet which I put him up to. He gave us many years as a Trustee of the Riverside Unified School District. He helped many projects through the permitting process. He will be missed.” Mike Gardner (via Facebook)

Beyond his local commitments, Tom played a pivotal role in educational policy. As a delegate representative to the California School Boards Association (CSBA) and a member of its committees, he influenced decisions on state-wide educational issues.

The Greater Riverside Chambers of Commerce honored Tom as the 2024 Art Pick Distinguished Leadership Riverside Alumni of the Year on June 14, 2024. His contributions to the community were recognized through numerous awards, including the 2016 Boy Scouts of America’s Distinguished Citizen Award and the 2016 NAACP Riverside Branch Roy Wilkins Award. Tom attended Riverside City College and the University of California, Los Angeles, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science.

Tom Hunt’s legacy is one of unwavering commitment to education, community service, and the betterment of Riverside. His impact will be felt for generations as the programs and initiatives he championed continue to benefit students and the community. Tom’s dedication, leadership, and kindness will be remembered and cherished by all who know him.