James K. Hoover

James Kenneth Hoover

July 29, 1936 - December 27, 2023 

James Kenneth Hoover, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, entered the gates of heaven on December 27, 2023, in Little Rock, Arkansas. James was born on July 29, 1936, in Little Rock, Arkansas. James will be remembered for his kind and admirable nature and was cherished by everyone who loved him. 

James found joy in family, church, old westerns, and, of course, football. He was known for his love of travel and quality time with friends and family, which he found both in his RV and camping trips. He and Loretta spent so much time exploring the world together making it to over 15 countries and all 50 states. 

James graduated North Little Rock High School, Class of 1954, and went on to serve in the Army National Guard; retiring as a Chief Warrant Officer 4 after 41 years. James was a member of First Assembly of God North Little Rock for 44 years where he served as a deacon for many years, door greeter on Sunday mornings, and he and Loretta enjoyed ministering through hospital visits and other events held by the church, as well as being an active member of the Challengers class for 44 years. 

James is survived by his loving wife of 34 years Loretta Hoover; daughter Pam Hoover Johnson (Billy); son James “Jimmy” Hoover Jr. (Lillie); their great-granddaughter Lucky Gilmore, who they raised as their own; step-daughters Theresa Long and Vanessa Gilmore; grandchildren, Brooke, Lori, Dustin, Samantha, Sabrina, John; 16 great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews, family, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Lee Hoover and Juanita Hoover; brother Robert Hoover; sister Doris Walker; his late wife of 34 years Shirley Hoover; daughter Martha Ann Hoover; and grandson David Wayne Shriver. 

James will forever be remembered as an exemplary man. His legacy will always be an example of what it means to a kind, loving, and truly exceptional man. He will be missed so dearly by his family and friends who cherished him so deeply. The memories we hold of him will always be present in our hearts. 

The family would like to give a special thanks to all of the doctors, nurses, and caregivers who took care of James during the past few months. James would make it a priority to connect with every one of you that he met and he appreciated the kindness and care each of you showed him. 

A visitation will be held from 10:00-11:00 AM on Wednesday, January 3, 2024, at First Assembly of God Church, 4501 Burrow Dr., NLR, AR, with a funeral following at 11:00 AM. Burial will be held at Edgewood Cemetery, NLR, AR, including Military Funeral Honors. Officiating the service will be Pastor Rod Loy from First Assembly of God NLR. The pallbearers will be Josh Hines, Collin Hines, Parker Hines, John Hoover, Jeremy Johnson, and Danny King.