Hoyt Wayne French, age 84, passed away on Friday, Feb. 24, 2017, at his residence surrounded by his family.
Mr. French was a proud American for God and his country who served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He was assigned to “B” colonel 1st batallion in the 32nd Infantry Regiment and the 7th Infantry Division. Along with the Purple Hearts he was awarded the Combat Infantry Badge, the Korean Presidential Unit Citation, U.S. Presidential Unit Citation, Korean Service Medal, United Nations Medal, National Defense Medal, Korea War Service Medal, Good Conduct Metal, one Bronze Service Star, Expert Shooter Rifle and Carbine, Order of Bayonet, and Cold War Medal. He was a life member of Colbert County Memorial Post No. 31, American Legion, where he was the commander of the post color guard/drill team. He was also a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Korea War Veterans Association, and the Military Order of the Purple Heart. He was also active with the Sons of Confederate Veterans where he participated in re-enactments of battles in uniform of that period. He retired from Reynolds after 30 years. He was a loving man, father, and grandfather who always took good care of his family. He especially loved his four legged friend, “Puddin.”
A graveside service will be held 2 p.m. todayat Halltown Cemetery in Red Bay, with full military honors performed by the American Legion Color Guard, Post No. 31. His son-in-law, John Snyder, will speak at the service.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Tavia (Shedd) French, and brothers, James Malcolm French, Milton Bryant French, and William “Billy” Keith French.
He leaves to cherish his memory his daughter, Marie French Snyder (husband, John Braxton Snyder Jr.); grandchildren, Kari Anne Snyder and Braxton Wayne Snyder (wife, Miranda); four great-granddaughters; three great-grandsons; brother, Thomas John “T.J.” French; longtime friend, Aline Robinson; and several nieces and nephews.
The family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to Dr. Rose, Dr. Sherrod, nursing staff at Shoals Hospital, Amedisys Hospice Care, Melinda McKleroy, and American Legion Post 31 for your love and care of our father and grandfather.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to the American Legion Color Guard, Post 31, c/o Don Johnson, 1085 Tennessee Ave., Tuscumbia, AL 35674.
Spry Memorial Chapel assisted the family. To leave private condolences, please visit our website at sprymemorialchapel.com.
