A Life Remembered: Tennessee Dedicates Highway to Andre’ Hunter

A Tribute That Travels the Distance

In a heartfelt ceremony marking both remembrance and resolve, Tennessee lawmakers have dedicated a section of Interstate 24 in Montgomery County as the Andre’ Hunter Memorial Highway. The designation honors the life of Andre’ Tremaine Hunter, a talented young graphic designer from Rutherford County whose life was tragically cut short in January 2023 by a drunk driver.

The initiative was led by State Rep. Tim Rudd of Murfreesboro, State Rep. Aron Maberry of Clarksville, and State Sen. Dawn White of Murfreesboro, who worked together to commemorate Hunter’s life and legacy through this permanent tribute.

“Andre’ Hunter was a loving son, brother and talented graphic designer with his whole life ahead of him,” the lawmakers said in a joint statement. “We are honored to help keep his memory alive and to recognize him for his contributions to Middle Tennessee with the Andre’ Hunter Memorial Highway. His mother, April, has been an inspiration to us through her passionate advocacy for his legacy. We continue to pray for strength for Andre’s family and friends.”

Remembering a Bright Spirit

Born on March 16, 1992, in Nashville, Andre’ Hunter grew up in Murfreesboro, where he graduated from Riverdale High School before earning his bachelor’s degree in graphic design from Austin Peay State University in 2021. Known for his creativity, Hunter built a thriving business and social media presence in the design world, collaborating with partners Adison Hardyway, Brandon Denton, and Terran “T-RAN” Gilbert.

Hunter was deeply rooted in faith, baptized at World Outreach Church in Murfreesboro, and known for living a life that reflected his Christian beliefs. Family, friends, and colleagues remember him as joyful, humble, and driven by a love of helping others.

His obituary described him as someone whose “love of the Lord shined bright for all to see,” adding that his kindness and positivity “made an impact on everyone he met.” Those who knew him say that his creative energy and compassionate spirit left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to cross his path.

The Road That Bears His Name

The Andre’ Hunter Memorial Highway now designates the westbound stretch of Interstate 24 between mile markers 14 and 15—the same area where Hunter tragically lost his life on January 21, 2023. He was driving near mile marker 14.40 when his vehicle was struck head-on by a drunk driver traveling in the wrong direction. He passed away at the scene.

Montgomery County Mayor Wes Golden issued a letter of support for naming this section of the interstate in Hunter’s memory, underscoring the community’s shared commitment to honoring his legacy and drawing awareness to the dangers of impaired driving.

A Mother’s Mission

Since her son’s passing, April Cody, Hunter’s mother, has been a steadfast advocate for preserving her son’s memory and sharing his story as a testament to faith, love, and perseverance. Her efforts inspired the lawmakers to pursue this roadway dedication, ensuring that Andre’s life continues to inspire others long after his passing.

In her own words, April reflected on her son’s journey through a touching tribute: “You were a bright light that touched so many… your love of the Lord shined bright for all to see.” Her words have since resonated across the community, offering comfort and strength to those who mourn while reminding others of the importance of cherishing every moment.

A Lasting Legacy

For travelers along I-24, the sign marking the Andre’ Hunter Memorial Highway will stand as a reminder of a life lived with purpose and compassion. It also serves as a message of awareness—honoring a young man who was taken too soon and emphasizing the need for continued efforts to prevent drunk driving tragedies.

Andre’s legacy is one of creativity, faith, and love. Through this dedication, the state of Tennessee ensures that his light will continue to shine—guiding others toward hope, remembrance, and responsibility on the road ahead.