Thomas Proctor Hoy

Tom Hoy died on Thursday, Nov. 17, 2011, at home in Baton Rouge. He was preceded in death on Aug. 17, by the love of his life, his wife of 63 years, Bonnie Beach Hoy; his parents, Tom Sr. and Maymie Covington Hoy; and his beloved grandson, Blake Unglesby. A natural salesman, he and Bonnie and his young family moved to Lafayette in 1959 as regional sales manager for George H. Lehleitner&Co. In 1968, they moved to New Orleans and soon after served as president of George H. Lehleitner until he retired. Upon retirement, he and Bonnie moved to Baton Rouge in 1997. He was a naval veteran stationed in the Pacific during World War II. An only child, he married Bonnie and inherited 11 sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, numerous nieces and nephews, all of whom he loved dearly. Mr. Hoy was known personally and professionally for his wisdom he administered with kindness and compassion. Despite his many accomplishments, he was always humble, full of good will, and infectious humor. His greatest trait was his ability to make all of those he came into contact with feel good about themselves and happy to have been around him. People from every walk of life recognized Tom for his sunny disposition and great personality. He is survived by his son, Tom III and daughter-in-law, Gail Cole, and his grandsons, Thomas IV and Graham Hoy. He is also survived by his daughter, Gail Hoy Unglesby and son-in-law, Lewis O. Unglesby, and his grandson, Lewis Jr. and wife Emilie, his great grandchildren, Virginia, Owens and Lucy; and his grandson, Lance Unglesby and wife Kim, and great-grandchildren, Blake and Eleanor. Our love, gratitude and many thanks to their loving caretaker, Emma Moore, and their dear sitter, Linda Robinson. Let it be said Tom P. Hoy Jr. was a man among men. His family will miss him forever and will always be grateful for his Christian principles, values, quick wit, warm hugs, great smile, and his huge heart of gold. Gold bless you, Tom Hoy. May you go in peace. Service at First United Methodist Church on Saturday, Nov. 19, at noon, with visitation beginning at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations in Mr. Hoy's name may be made to First United Methodist Church for "Blake's Playground," 930 North Boulevard, Baton Rouge, LA 70802 or Hospice Foundation of Baton Rouge, 9063 Siegen Lane, Baton Rouge, LA 70810.