Jerry Carl Hovater, 67, of Russellville, Alabama, passed away Friday, April 28, 2017, at Russellville Hospital. A native and lifetime resident of Russellville, Alabama, Mr. Hovater was a graduate of Russellville High School and retired from the Franklin County Board of Education after over 31 years of faithful service. He was an active member of Jonesboro Baptist Church. Mr. Hovater was also a farmer, an equipment operator, and a member of the Duncan Creek Hunting Club. Both adults and children will miss his visits as Santa along with Mrs. Santa during the holidays.
Visitation for Mr. Hovater will be today, April 30, 2017, from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Pinkard Funeral Home, Russellville. Services will be Monday, May 1, 2017, at 2 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with Kent Walker and Billy Thorn officiating. Burial will be at Jonesboro Cemetery, Russellville.
Pallbearers will be Tommy Bragwell, Jerry Hall, W.G. Cochran, Jimmy James, James Hester, and Dwight Boyles.
Mr. Hovater is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Martha Prince Hovater: two sons, Greg Hovater and wife Kathy, and Gary (Bo) Hovater and wife Danielle. He is also survived by two brothers, Houston Hovater Jr. and wife Jean, and Billy Joe Hovater. Five grandchildren, one great-grandchild and a host of friends, nieces, and nephews also survive him.
He was preceded in death by his parents Carson Houston and Lurlie Mae Bendall Hovater.
Pinkard Funeral Home, Russellville will be assisting the family.
