Born April 19, 1949, in Clayton, New Mexico, to James Turner Hoy and Jeffie May Hoy, Jim was raised in Gruver, Texas, where he graduated from Gruver High School in 1967. His passion for biology led him to Abilene Christian University and later to Oklahoma Panhandle State University, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology in 1974. Jim dedicated his life to wildlife and conservation. He began his career with Texas Parks and Wildlife at Palo Duro Canyon State Park, and in 1982, he transferred to the Inland Fisheries Division. Known for his knowledge, kindness, and sense of humor, Jim influenced countless colleagues and visitors until his retirement in August 2020.
He is survived by his loving wife, Shirley Hoy; daughter, Andria Manning; grandchildren, Jacob, Madison, and Calissa; sister, Jane Thompson; niece, Leslie Moulton (and husband Andrew); nephew, Robert Thompson (and wife Devon); and great-niece, Madeline. He also leaves behind many cousins, whom he cherished seeing at the annual O'Neal family reunions.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, James Turner and Jeffie May Hoy, and his niece, Katie Thompson (passed 2017).
A life-long learner, dedicated conservationist, and devoted family man, Jim’s legacy lives on in the natural beauty he helped preserve and the lives he touched.
