Jesse Hoyt Looney was born in Limestone County on December 15, 1927. Hoyt, as he was known, left the farm to attend the University of Alabama where he met two lifelong loves, Alabama football and his future wife, Sarah (Sally) Newsom. Hoyt and Sally tried out a number of locations across the country before settling in Huntsville where Hoyt practiced as a Certified Public Accountant. Hoyt worked in several firms retiring as a senior partner at Taylor, Snyder, and Co.
Before and after retirement he was active in professional societies including the Huntsville Kiwanis Club (president 1985), the American Institute of CPAs, and the Alabama Society of CPAs (president 1981-1982). Hoyt also served the church as a treasurer for Trinity United Methodist Church, and then Aldersgate UMC. Hoyt served in the U.S. Army and was stationed in Japan during the Korean War. He remained active in the Army Reserves and retired as a Colonel.
Hoyt Looney was a dapper dresser which was never more in evidence than when he and Sally attended Alabama football games. He was a quiet man who loved classical music and was quick to laugh at a good joke. He enjoyed time outdoors with his family hiking and sailing, and being with his grandchildren at the river and the beach.
He is survived by Sally Looney, his wife of 72 years; children, Mary Ann Buehler and James Hoyt Looney; and seven grandchildren: Ben Buehler, David and Philip Suitts, Casey and Shelby North, and Emery and Erin Looney. He was preceded in death by two children, Virginia Lucile Looney and Jane Leila Looney.
A life ceremony will be held at a later date.
