Guy Lee Hovis

1941 - 2026

Guy Lee Hovis Jr. passed away peacefully on Thursday evening, January 22, 2026, at the age of 84. He leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to his family, friends, and the many audiences he entertained over his lifetime.

Guy was born on September 24, 1941, in Tupelo, Mississippi, the son of Guy Lee Hovis Sr. and Frances Hovis. From the age of five, he began singing in church, a passion that would become the foundation of a remarkable career spanning more than 40 years entertaining audiences of all ages all over America.

Guy graduated from the University of Mississippi in 1963 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting. While at Ole Miss, he was an active member of Sigma Nu Fraternity, where he gained lifelong friendships. During this time, Guy and his friends formed the "Chancellor's Quartet," a group of lifelong friends who sang together for decades. His time at Ole Miss also deepened his love of Rebel sports, and he remained a devoted fan throughout his life.

After graduating, Guy fulfilled his military service in the United States Army, including time at the Artillery Officer Candidate School at Fort Sill, Oklahoma and completing Paratrooper School at Fort Benning, Georgia.

Following his military service, Guy moved to Hollywood to begin his full-time music career. He was introduced to The Horn, a nightclub in Santa Monica where aspiring performers showcased their talent. There, Guy was discovered by a producer from The Art Linkletter House Party Show on CBS.

In 1969, Guy made his television debut on The Lawrence Welk Television Show, an initial performance that led to an invitation to join the Welk musical family. Guy went on to perform on The Lawrence Welk Show from 1970 until the series concluded in 1982, becoming a familiar and beloved presence to audiences nationwide.

Beyond television, Guy recorded 15 albums, worked with such notable entertainers as Dinah Shore and Jim Nabors, and made guest appearances on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson, The Merv Griffin Show, and others.

In 1990, Guy returned to Mississippi and became Director of State Operations for his lifelong friend, former U.S. Senator Trent Lott for 17 years. In 2005, Guy performed "Let the Eagle Soar" at the 43rd Presidential Inauguration Ceremony for George W. Bush in Washington, D.C.

Throughout his life, Guy embraced opportunities to give back, such as performing at benefit concerts, supporting veterans' organizations, and participating in charity events. He also appeared in Mississippi Rising, a nationwide television special that raised millions of dollars for Hurricane Katrina relief efforts. He was also inducted into the Mississippi Musicians Hall of Fame.

In retirement, Guy enjoyed a rich and active life filled with the things he loved most. He looked forward to weekly golf games with the "Old Farts Golf Club" at Whisper Lake, his Tuesday luncheons with his buddies, and his Sunday night phone call with his daughter, Julie. He was an active member of Christ United Church, where he sang in the choir and was a member of the "New Yorkers" Sunday School class. Guy also treasured travel adventures with Sis to many destinations, most recently to the Holy Land and Italy.

Guy was known for his character, loyalty to those he loved, and long-standing commitment to his church. Whether through conversation, laughter, or simple acts of care, Guy made a lasting impression. He will be remembered with love and gratitude, and his memory will live on in the hearts of all who shared life with him.

Guy is survived by his beloved wife of 24 years, Sarah "Sis" Lundy Hovis; his sister Joy Hovis Killebrew; his daughter Julie Hovis-Diaz (Carlos); his stepdaughter Dawn Moorhead Menard (Chane); his stepson Hunter Moorhead (Amanda); and his grandchildren Blair, Mary Margaret, Tori, Sophie, Wilson, and Reed. Guy also leaves behind his beloved nieces and nephews, including Jennifer Dickey (Richard), Heather Kidd (Billy), Corey Bolen (Christy), and Megan Crenshaw (Tony). Guy will also be deeply missed by the entire Lundy family-especially John and Hayley, Eliza, Anne Marie, and Mary Gibson-with whom he shared many fond memories over the years.

Those who were blessed to have spent time around Guy will always remember the music that followed him wherever he went. Whether he was humming a familiar tune, strumming his guitar, or sitting down at the piano, music was simply part of who he was. It brought him joy and served as one of the many ways he connected with others.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, January 29, at Christ United Church in Jackson, Mississippi. Visitation will take place from 12:00 to 1:30 p.m., with the funeral service scheduled for 2:00 p.m.