Dr. James R. Hoover, 72, of Plant City, died Feb. 10, 2014.
Born Dec. 30, 1941, Mr. Hoover was a graduate of Plant City High School, the University of Florida and the University of Maryland Dental School. Following graduation, he returned to Plant City for a life of service to the community he loved.
He practiced dentistry since 1968, in Plant City and served from 1978 to 1982 as a city commissioner. He taught Sunday School his entire adult life at both Eastside Baptist Church and Plant City’s First Baptist Church. He participated in mission trips abroad and community service projects here in the city. He was passionate about running, travel, ballroom dancing and his family.
He is survived by his mother, Joyce Hendry; wife of 38 years, Beverly Reynolds Hoover; children, U.S Navy Ret. Capt. Jim Hoover (Lisa), U.S. Coast Guard Ret. Petty Officer 1st Class Jerry Hoover, Karen Hoover Blocker (James), U.S. Army Ret. Sgt. 1st Class John Hoover (Sara) and Luci Hoover; 10 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
Dr. Hoover was predeceased by his father, Talmadge Hendry; and his sister, Jeannette Hoover Preston.
The family suggests in lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to the Florida Baptist Children’s Homes, fbchomes.org, or the Gideons International, gideons.org.
A memorial service to celebrate his life took place Feb. 15, at Plant City’s First Baptist Church.
Condolences may be made to the family at wellsmemorial.com.
