Herbert Orace Hooks

Herbert Orace Hooks lived a life marked by love, faith, and a quiet strength that touched everyone who knew him. On December 24, 2025, Herbert peacefully transitioned from this life into the presence of his Lord and Savior in Tavares, Florida, at the age of 78. Born on November 6, 1947, in Milledgeville, Georgia, Herbert’s journey was one filled with service, compassion, and unwavering devotion to family and God.

For 44 treasured years, Herbert shared a beautiful life with his beloved wife, Karen. Their marriage was a true partnership—rooted in faith, mutual respect, and enduring love. Together, they built a home filled with warmth and welcome, first in Catasauqua, Pennsylvania, and later in Florida after relocating in 2014. Herbert was a devoted and proud father to his son, Ronald Claven of Mount Dora, Florida, whose life he followed with deep love and pride.

Herbert’s family was his joy. He leaves behind his loving sisters: Barbara Young of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania; Rosa Lee Johnson of Detroit, Michigan; Joyce Humphries (Horace) of O’Fallon, Illinois; Eunice Pate of Detroit, Michigan; and Frankie Dixon of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. He also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and lifelong friends who will forever cherish his gentle spirit, kind heart, and genuine smile.

One of Herbert’s most meaningful legacies was his calling as a foster parent for more than 25 years. He opened his home to countless children, offering them safety, encouragement, and unconditional love. To many, Herbert was more than a caregiver, he was a steady presence, a role model, and a source of hope.

Professionally, Herbert enjoyed a successful career in sales and later as a business owner. He was widely known for his warm, genuine smile and his remarkable ability to connect with customers, making everyone he encountered feel seen, respected, and valued. His integrity, work ethic, and personable nature left a lasting impression wherever he went.

Herbert was a man of deep Christian faith. His relationship with Jesus Christ was the foundation of his life and carried him through many health challenges with grace and peace. He faithfully attended First Baptist Church of Mount Dora, where he found strength in worship, fellowship, and the promises of God.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Hooks and Clydie Hooks Younger, and his brothers Marion Hooks, Ralph Hooks, and Robert Hooks, whom he now joyfully reunites with in heaven.

Herbert Orace Hooks will be remembered as a loving husband, devoted father, caring brother, cherished uncle and faithful servant of God. Though we grieve his absence, we rejoice in knowing that his race has been run and his reward is secure.

Services will be held at First Baptist Church of Mount Dora on Saturday, January 24, 2026 at 11:30 AM. The family of received friends prior to the service from 10:30 until 11:30 AM at the church.

Scripture: “Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord.” — Matthew 25:21

Family Acknowledgment:

The family of Herbert Orace Hooks extends their heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of love, prayers, kind words, and support shown during this time. Your compassion and care have brought comfort and strength, and the family is deeply thankful to all who have joined them in celebrating Herbert’s life and enduring legacy.