Shawn Hoveland

Shawn Hoveland, 58, of New Bern, North Carolina passed away on July 29th, 2026. He was born on June 9th, 1968, in Bethesda, Maryland to Bill and Jane Hoveland. Shawn grew up in Annapolis, Maryland on Chesapeake Bay where he learned to love all water sports and fishing and crabbing. Shawn was an accomplished lacrosse player and coach. He developed a love for cooking at a young age and continued with that passion for his entire career as a talented chef. He was known for his desire to live life to the fullest and was happiest when he was riding.

Shawn was larger than life and everything he did showed that. From the Hoveland House of Lights to the expansion at Beartown. He was a visionary and enjoyed bringing his ideas to life.

His life was far too short, but it was full of love, creativity, laughter and moments that mattered. The people who knew him will carry those pieces of him forward.

Shawn leaves behind his children Mel and Toby, Carolyn, his mom Jane, brother, Chris, and his daughters, Lydia and Mary Holland, Amanda Hunt, and his dogs Bear and Rebel.

A celebration of life will be held in the near future as Shawn did not want people to be sad, he wanted a big party!

Cotten Funeral Home is honored to serve the family and friends of Shawn Hoveland.