Roy Hovatter Obituary

Roy James Hovatter

May 28, 2025

JONESBOROUGH - Roy James Hovatter, 83, of Jonesborough walked into the arms of his Lord on May 28th, 2025 at Four Oaks Healthcare. He was born to the late Roy Thomas and Edith Magdeline Hovatter. He was also preceded in death by his wife, Judy Elaine Oakes Hovatter; a son, R. Thomas Hovatter; brother and sister in law, Jack and Betty May; and a brother in law, Carl Bowman.

Roy was of the Pentecostal faith. He enjoyed listening to all kinds of music, especially bluegrass and gospel music. He enjoyed golfing when he was able, he also loved to fish. He was a collector of anything he thought was useful. Roy was a people person. He never met a stranger. He owned a barber shop in his younger years. He went on to work for Rainbow Bread Company for many years. He enjoyed his work and took pride in providing for his family. He retired from the company 2001. Roy loved his family and took every opportunity to spend time with them.

Those left to cherish his memory are his daughter, Lori M. Mowdy and husband Sankler Mowdy; sister, Debbie Bowman; a brother, Wayne Hovatter and wife Deb; special lifelong friend, Freda Gouge; close friends, Frances Holton, David Shipley and Stan and Janet Bradley ; special cousin, Alma Campbell; favored family pets, Molly Bea, Jimmy Lee, and Jason and many other family members and friends.

The family will hold a service to celebrate the life of Roy on June 2nd at 6 pm at Johnson City Baptist Temple (905 Milligan Highway Johnson City, TN 37601) with Pastor Danny Pell officiating. Music will be under the direction of Sabrina Keller.

Mountain empire Cremation and Burial Services are honored to serve the family of Mr. Roy Hovatter. (423) 913-4818