William "Hoyt" Ownby, age 88, a resident of Cleveland, Tennessee, passed away Thursday morning, March 25, 2020 in a Chattanooga health care facility.
Mr. Ownby was born in Bradley County and he was the son of the late Ada Armstrong Ownby and William Taft Ownby. His son-in-law, Dennis Boring and his brother-in-law, Gilbert Hawkins also preceded him in death.
Mr. Ownby owned and operated Hoyt Ownby Wrecker Mounting for many years. He also enjoyed raising cattle on his farm. He enjoyed gospel singing and he always witnessed for the Lord. He loved spending time with his family. Mr. Ownby attended the Echoes of Mercy Baptist Church and he was a veteran of the United States Army serving in Korea.
Survivors include his wife of 69 years, Ruby Joan Ownby of Cleveland; his daughters, Darlene Bryant and her husband Chip, Shirley Maynard and her husband Jim, all of Cleveland, Margaret Boring of Hixson, Tn.; his five grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild; his sister, Emma Ellen Hawkins, also of Cleveland; several nieces and nephews; and special friends, Grady Dunn and Dr. Lucille Dietrick also survive.
The family will have a private graveside service at Sunset Memorial Gardens with Pastor Daniel White officiating and family serving as casket bearers.
A Remembrance of Life Service and visitation will be held at as later date. The time and details will be announced.
Jim Rush Funeral and Cremation Services North Ocoee St. Chapel has charge of the arrangements.