Jerry R. Hoover

Jerry R. Hoover passed away on Thursday March 21, 2019, at Deaconess Hospital with his loving family at his side. Mr. Hoover was born on June 26, 1932 in Evansville, Indiana to parents Charles B “Chuck” and Catherine Hoover who preceded him in death.

After serving his country as the Director of the 1st Armored Division Chorus of the United States Army, Mr. Hoover began his teaching career where he inspired countless students to not only love music but to strive for excellence in all they do. Twenty-four years were spent at North High School as the Vocal Music Director where the Performing Arts Center now bears his name. Mr. Hoover directed seventeen musicals and presented Handel’s Messiah annually with full orchestra. He also directed summer musicals at Mesker Starlite Theater. Mr. Hoover helped thousands of students discover the joy of singing in a choir and performing in musical theater. Countless other students have studied with him in his private studio and have gone on to further their careers at universities, conservatories, and on stages all across the world. The last twenty years of his career in public education were spent as a guidance counselor at Harrison High School.

A 1949 graduate of Central High School, Mr. Hoover completed a Bachelor of Music Education degree at Evansville College and a Masters of Music degree at Indiana University. He also completed doctoral work in vocal pedagogy. Later, he returned to college to earn a School Counselor Certification. Mr. Hoover was active in many professional organizations and honor societies. He received numerous awards for his contributions to fine arts, most notably he received an honor tribute from the Evansville Philharmonic, and he was named an Honorary Singing Hoosier for the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music in gratitude for the number of his music students who went on to sing in that renowned group.

Mr. Hoover was a consummate musician, a gifted organist, and skilled accompanist. His music was always a reflection of his deep Christian faith. He served as the Director of Music at Trinity United Methodist Church for 40 years where he was intentional in selecting and performing music that would glorify God during each worship service.

His legacy as a teacher and musician is only surpassed by his commitment to his family and the legacy he leaves behind through them.

He is survived by the love of his life, JoAnn, with whom he shared 55 years of mutual devotion. He is also survived by his sons Brian (Darla), Brent (Stephanie) and six grandchildren Josh (Jacqueline), Riley, Jared, Ethan, Conor, and Lauren and great-grandson Hunter.

The family would like to thank Dr. Eric Steed Jackson and staff, Dr. Muhammad Habib and staff, Dr. Emil Weber, and the nurses and staff of the 4800 Unit at Deaconess Midtown. We were blessed to have them at our side during this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Public Education Foundation (Jerry Hoover Summer Musical Memorial on the memo line), PO Box 1163, Evansville, Indiana, 47706 or a charity of your choice.

Alexander North Funeral Home is entrusted with care. The visitation and funeral will be held at Aldersgate United Methodist Church, 5130 Lincoln Avenue in Evansville, Indiana 47715. Friends may call from 3:00 – 7:00 p.m. Sunday, March 24, and from 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. on Monday, March 25. The funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m. A private burial will follow. The Reverend Doug Heiman and the Reverend George Purnell will officiate.

Mr. Hoover never sought the spotlight for himself. Rather, his mission in life was to spread love, teach others to believe in themselves, and to glorify God through music. He often quoted these words from the late Oscar Hammerstein II,

“A bell is no bell ‘til you ring it.

A song is no song ‘til you sing it.

And love in your heart wasn’t put there to stay,

Love isn’t love ‘til you give it away.”