Dennis “Biddy” Hunter was a prominent figure in the surfing community, known for representing the First Coast on the international stage and significantly shaping its surfing culture.
ST. AUGUSTINE BEACH, Fla. — The surfing world lost a legend from the First Coast as Biddy Hunter, who spent his life making waves both literally and figuratively, passed away at the age of 77.
“He and his brother once dressed up as two little old lady ‘biddies,'” recalled Surf Station Owner Tory Strange. “That’s apparently how he got his nickname.”
A distinctive name befitting a man who left an indelible mark on the First Coast’s surfing scene.
Strange recounted meeting Biddy Hunter many years ago during a surfing session and was immediately struck by Hunter’s extraordinary talent.
“I organized a contest here,” Strange said. “Biddy showed up, dominated, and won the professional division. His skills in the water were impressive, but even more so was his remarkable ability to connect with people.”
Strange and Hunter share a connection at the St. Augustine Surf Culture and History Museum, where they both make an appearance in a book noting the members who helped form the surfing community.
The museum features a massive picture of a mustachioed Hunter carving up a wave, noting he was the first person from St. Augustine to compete in the World Surfing Championships in 1968 and went on to win the Florida State Championship in 1985.
“I think the way he handled victory and defeat was a great moment,” said Strange. “He was always a class act.”
Although losing his surfing companion is still fresh for Strange, he’s taking solace in knowing the impact Hunter had in shaping surfing culture in both Jacksonville and St. Augustine.
“He had an influence on so many surfers and people throughout the surfing community,” said Strange. “He was just loved.”
Although it’s been a few years since they last paddled out together, Strange says he will be thinking about him when he catches his next wave.
“I think his legacy will live on at the beach and people will always remember him,” said Strange. “He’s not going anywhere.”
Strange mentioned several surfers are planning a paddle out in Hunter’s honor.
