Edgar Jackson Gunter, Jr., 90, a longtime resident of Charlottesville, Virginia, passed away on August 14, 2024. Born in Baltimore, Maryland, Dr. Gunter earned a bachelor of science from Duke University and a doctoral degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Pennsylvania.

Dr. Gunter taught mechanical engineering for 34 years at the University of Virginia (UVA) and was the founder of UVA’s Rotor Dynamics Laboratory. Dr. Gunter mentored dozens of graduate students who have gone on to distinguished careers in the field of rotor dynamics. After retiring in 1998, he continued to publish papers and served as President of Rodyn Vibration Analysis, a consulting firm. One of the leading authorities in rotor dynamics, Dr. Gunter’s publications are referenced worldwide by the military, NASA, and major manufacturers.

“EJ,” as he was known, was a cherished father and grandfather, and an avid tennis player, skier, and bridge player. He was a fierce competitor in many a family board game such as Sequence and Trivial Pursuit. He authored the instructional manual “The Zen of Sequence,” and is credited as the inventor of “Blowball” (played on a ping pong table).

He was preceded in death by his wife, Dr. Mary Alice Gunter and his parents, Edgar Jackson Gunter Sr. and Catherine Granofsky Gunter. EJ is survived by his daughter, Pamela C. Friedman (Ronald Bailey); his sons, William Gunter (Sue), Peter Gunter (Gail Esterman) and David Gunter (Pattie); five grandchildren: Anne Margulies (Ben), Madeleine Bassett (Hayden), Christina Gunter, Lucy Gunter (Colin Quinn), and Sarah Gunter; one great-grandchild (Henry), his sister, Gay Caroline Roche; and his beloved friend, Kathleen Lombardi.

In lieu of flowers, please consider supporting the The Mary Alice Gunter and Edgar J. Gunter, Jr. Scholarship, c/o UVA Curry School Foundation.

For more on services and to share your condolences, visit Hill and Wood Funeral Service.