Joshua Thompson Hoy

Joshua Thompson Hoy died in Fort Worth, Texas, on Saturday, February 22, 2025. He was born January 17, 1971, in Emporia, Kansas, the son of Jim and Cathy Hoy. He was a lifelong cowboy and rancher in Chase County, Kansas, known for his innovative ranching practices at the Flying W Ranch in the Kansas Flint Hills. Alongside his wife, Gwen, Josh managed a cattle ranch that emphasized sustainable and conservation-focused methods.
Josh's commitment to the land extended beyond the day-to-day operation of the ranch. He and Gwen received the Kansas Leopold Conservation Award for their efforts in promoting grassland stewardship and improving soil health and water quality. They also hosted public events at the ranch, such as controlled burns, chuckwagon suppers, and trail rides, to raise awareness about the ecological benefits of their practices. At the time of his death, Josh was serving as Vice President of the Board of Directors of the Pioneer Bluffs Flint Hills Ranching Heritage Center, a historic property dedicated to preserving the heritage of the Flint Hills.
He is survived by his wife, Gwen Hoy, of the home, and daughter, Josie Hoy of Overland Park, Kansas, his sister Farrell Hoy Jenab and nephew Henry Jenab of the Kansas City area, and niece Lucy Jenab of Emporia. He was preceded in death by his mother, Catherine Hoy. Josh passed away from a heart attack just hours before the death of his father, Jim Hoy of Emporia.
Josh's keen intelligence, unwavering dedication to conservation, and charismatic sense of humor have left a lasting impact on the community and the environment. His legacy lives on through the continued efforts of his family and the many lives he touched through his work at the Flying W Ranch.
A memorial for Josh and his father, Jim Hoy, will be held on Saturday, March 8, from 1 – 4 p.m. at William Lindsay White Auditorium, 111 East 6th Avenue, Emporia, Kansas. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Tallgrass Legacy Alliance, 868 Rd 290, Americus, Kansas 66835.