Sally Jean Hoxie

Sally Jean Hoxie, a cherished soprano whose voice graced many stages and warmed the hearts of her beloved family, passed away peacefully on October 26, 2025, in White Lake, Michigan. Born on August 3, 1935, in Dayton, Ohio, Sally's life was a harmonious blend of music, love, and joy that touched all who knew her.

Sally's journey began in Dayton, where she grew up with a passion for music that would become the cornerstone of her life. She graduated from Wilbur Wright High School and then honed her vocal talents at the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music. Sally's voice was not only a gift to audiences but also a cherished tradition within her family, as she sang "Happy Birthday" with operatic flair for each member on their special day—a very special gift indeed.

In 1958, Sally married the love of her life, James Hoxie, at St. Andrew's in Dayton, Ohio. Their union was a duet of devotion and harmony until James' passing in January of 2018. Together, they raised a loving family, including their children Joyce, John, and Laura, and were blessed with grandchildren who inherited her spirit and grace.

Sally's professional accomplishments were as impressive as her role as a matriarch. She graced many events as a soloist and was a member of the Rackham Choir for several years. Her involvement with the Vivace Music Club in Macomb County and her performance with the Windsor Light Music Theater in Windsor, Ontario, showcased her dedication to her craft. Sally also shared her musical talents with her church community at First Church-Christ Scientist in Birmingham, Michigan, where she uplifted many with her voice as a soloist.

Beyond the stage, Sally was a woman of varied interests. An avid baseball fan, she supported the Cincinnati Reds and Detroit Tigers with equal fervor. She enjoyed baking and is well remembered for her legendary chocolate chip cookies. Sally and Jim shared a love of travel, exploring the wonders of Austria, Prague, and much of Eastern Europe, with a memorable five-month stay in Austria that they often recounted with fondness.

Animals held a special place in Sally's heart, especially dogs, which were her constant and loving companions. Her spirited nature was evident in everything she did, from her creative pursuits to her loving interactions with those around her.

Sally is survived by her children John (Julia) Hoxie and Laura (Bret Alden) Sherman; her cherished grandchildren Tori (Jessica) Selby, Rachel (Eugene Landini) Jackson, Nathan (Rayleigh) Hoxie, Catharine (Lee) Siemens, Stephanie (Austin) Miller, Bret (Chelsea) Alden, Alyssa (Brennan Greaves) Sherman, and Matt Sherman; her siblings Connie (Rich) Stoner, Kathy (Butch) Boyce, and Alfred (Joann) Poock; and her son-in-law, Jeff Jackson. She joins in eternal rest her late husband, James, her daughter, Joyce Jackson, and her sisters Patricia Anderson, Nancy Tilton, and Mary Slade.

Sally's legacy is one of love, spirit, and creativity - a life beautifully composed and performed with grace. Her melody will resonate in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who were moved by her music. Sally Jean Hoxie's song may have ended, but her memory will forever play on in the lives she touched.