James Wallace Hovater, age 83 of Tuscumbia went to be with the Lord on Thursday, October 6, 2016. Visitation will be Saturday from 1-2 p.m. at Morrison Funeral Home, Tuscumbia. His funeral service will follow in the funeral home chapel with his son Jerry Hovater officiating. A private burial service for immediate family will follow at New Bethel Cemetery with family to serve as pallbearers.
He is survived by his loving wife of fifty-eight years, Marie Hovater, children; Jerry Hovater and wife Lori, Jimmy Hovater and wife Jan; four granddaughters; three grandsons; two great granddaughters; and one great-grandson and a host of friends and family.
He was preceded in death by his daughter, Sandra K. Hovater; sister, Lucille Letson; Mother, Lona Nelson and Father, Wallace Hovater.
James loved to play the banjo, attend all bluegrass festivals and travel. He loved people, animals and nature. He had a very big heart and never met a stranger. He loved spending time with all of his family and friends. The light of his life though was his grandson, Austin Hovater. They had a bond like no other.
His family would like to thank Laura Gann, Kristen Howard, Tish Miller, Ashley Glover, Holly Carter, Abby Bernauer and all other Amedisys staff; New Bethel Fire Department, Jan Hovater and Shana McBrayer for their love and care to James over the past five and half years. Also, a special thanks to Gail Isbell for the love and support throughout the years.
