The family of Gerald R "Jerry" Hoover of Sugarland, TX announces his passing, and invites all who knew him to remember him here.
Behind every name is a life, and behind every life are the people who loved it.
Parenthood is the slow work of love. Gerald did it well.
Gerald "Jerry" R. Hoover, a man whose wit could light up even the dullest room, passed away on Saturday, April 25, 2026, in Sugarland, TX, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and love that spanned 79 remarkable years. Born in the bustling heart of Detroit, MI on Saturday, June 15, 1946, Jerry was a true craftsman, not just in his work and hobbies of building remarkable things out of thin air but in the way he crafted joy in everyone's life around him.
Jerry lived an extraordinary life filled with love and devotion, especially to his beloved wife, Bonnie A. Hoover, with whom he shared an impressive 62 years of marriage. Their bond was a testament to the power of love, laughter, and a healthy dose of playful teasing! Together, they raised a son, Kevin G. Hoover, and two daughters, Sherry A. McCollom (husband David) and Heidi L. Young (husband Charles), who carry forward his legacy of kindness and humor. His family expanded beautifully as he embraced grandchildren and great-grandchildren who adored him. Jerry was a proud grandfather to R. Joy Hoover Al Lhaibi (husband Amer), and their children Ayman and Jeanette "Jett,"; Lucy McCollom Casteel (husband Wynne) and their daughter Hannah Elizabeth, as well as the delightful trio of granddaughters Victoria Morgan Young, Lillian Marie Young, and Olivia Meghan Young, all of whom were swept up in his love, charm and laughter.
In addition to his immediate family, Jerry's circle of love extended to Eugene P. Manier (wife Sue), Allen Manier (wife Joyce), Lynda Love (husband David), and Dennis K Manier (wife Kathy) and a multitude of nieces and nephews, all touched by his generosity and good humor. He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence R. Hoover and Vera L. Holden, his son Kevin Gerald Hoover, and siblings-including Milton, Esther Ruth, Clarence R, William, Marvin, Marlene, and Clifford. While they may have passed on, they surely have some epic stories to share with Jerry in the great beyond!
Jerry's drive for life was only matched by his passion for helping others. His favorite charity was St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, where he found yet another avenue to channel his generous spirit.
In true Jerry fashion, there will be a celebration of his life at a future date, where tales of his quick-witted comments and festive spirit will undoubtedly keep the room in stitches. Until then, we invite all who knew him to remember the funny, kind, and generous man who was never too busy to lend a helping hand or share a hearty laugh.
In lieu of flowers, Jerry would appreciate contributions to St. Jude's, as he would want his legacy to include the laughter and lives of children everywhere. As he would often quip, "Why take life too seriously? No one gets out alive anyway!" Farewell, dear Jerry; you will be missed but never forgotten.
