Hunter Lanning, known to many simply as “Rabbit,” passed away peacefully at his home in Davidson County at the age of 25, surrounded by the family who never left his side.
Born on September 11, 2000, in Rowan County, Hunter was the son of Woody Lanning and Lisa Eller Brewer. Even at a young age, people remember him as someone who brought energy into every room without trying. He had an easy laugh, a strong presence, and the kind of personality that made people feel comfortable around him almost immediately.
Hunter loved simple things, but he loved them deeply. Hunting trips, fishing days, grilling outside, talking sports, spending time with family and friends — those were the moments where he felt most at peace. He was a loyal fan of the Dallas Cowboys and the New York Yankees, and anyone who knew him understood quickly that game days mattered in his house.
Cooking became another way he showed love to people. He especially enjoyed grilling ribeyes and brisket, and family members say some of the best conversations happened while standing around the smoker or grill waiting for food to finish cooking. One of his favorite places to eat was Stamey’s, a place he talked about often and enjoyed sharing with people close to him.
But above all else, Hunter loved his wife, DeeAnnah.
The life they built together meant everything to him. Whether they were at home with their dog Molly, spending quiet time together, or simply getting through ordinary days side by side, the people closest to them could see how deeply connected they were. In the final chapter of his life, DeeAnnah remained constantly beside him, caring for him with a level of love and devotion his family says they will never forget.
Hunter was also known as a man of faith. Even through difficult moments, he continued holding onto the people and beliefs that grounded him. Friends describe him as strong not only because of what he faced, but because of how he carried himself through it.
He took pride in his work and genuinely enjoyed what he did. That pride showed in the way he approached responsibilities, friendships, and everyday life. He was dependable, caring, and often the kind of person others naturally relied on.
Left to cherish his memory are his wife, DeeAnnah Lanning; his father, Woody Lanning; his mother, Lisa Eller Brewer, and stepfather, James Brewer; his father-in-law, Daniel Brantley (Amy); his mother-in-law, Kamra Langenberg; his beloved dog Molly; his sister, Harley Harris (Steven); his niece and nephew, Madison and Wyatt; his grandmother, Sandra “Nana” Lanning; and his grandfather, Kenny “Pap” Lanning.
He was preceded in death by his Mamaw N and his cousin, Nikki.
His family also shared deep appreciation for the staff of Pine Acres, the West Davidson community, and the Wake Forest Oncology Team for the care, compassion, and support shown throughout Hunter’s illness.
The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 PM on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at Davidson Funeral Home in Lexington, North Carolina. Funeral services will be held Wednesday at 2:00 PM at Smith Grove Baptist Church with Pastor Terry Smith officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.
For those who knew Hunter best, the memories that remain are not only tied to loss, but to the way he lived — laughing with friends, standing over a grill, talking baseball or football, spending time outdoors, and loving his family with everything he had. His absence will be deeply felt, but the memories he created continue to stay close to the people who loved him most.
