Joshua Thompson Hoy

Joshua Thompson Hoy obituary, Topeka, KS

Joshua Thompson Hoy

Joshua Hoy Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Midwest Cremation, Inc. on Feb. 28, 2025.

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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.
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Sign Joshua Hoy's Guest Book

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March 19, 2025

Janice and Jerry Humes posted to the memorial.

March 8, 2025

Walt Racker posted to the memorial.

March 8, 2025

Nancy Richwine posted to the memorial.

6 Entries

Janice and Jerry Humes

March 19, 2025

My husband and I were amateur horseback riders. Very amateur. However we enjoyed several trail rides at the Flying W ranch with Josh and Gwen as guides. We thoroughly enjoyed the beautiful Flint Hills especially seen through their eyes. One time we treated our children and grand children to a wagon ride. Also a cattle drive. We were saddened to hear Josh and his father Jim had left us.Kansas and the Flint Hills will greatly miss these two cowboys. Happy Trails and our sincere sympathy to their families.

Walt Racker

March 8, 2025

The first time I met Josh was at a house concert for Peter Ostroushko at Gloria Throne's house near Lawrence. When it was over and I went to leave, my car got stuck in the mud, so he engaged several friends and his dad, Jim, to push me out. This small gesture stayed with me, since without his help I would have needed to call a tow truck. I never had a chance to repay his kindness, but I will never forget his generosity.

Nancy Richwine

March 8, 2025

I am very sad about the passing of Josh. I did not receive word of his passing until today so I couldn´t attend his memorial service! This saddens me even more because he is my second cousin. May you rest in peace Josh and may God be with you always!! Nancy Richwine

Kathleen Anderson

March 3, 2025

I was so saddened to hear of Josh´s sudden passing. I will always remember the lovely times I spent on painting trips at the Flying W and the gracious hosts - Gwen and Josh. We will miss a wonderful man. Kathleen Anderson, Lawrence, KS

Loey Norquist

March 1, 2025

My deepest sympathies to the Hoy family. Our family stayed at the Flying W ranch. It was a profound and thrilling adventure, especially for my young sons. Josh and Gwen were so very kind. We are grateful for the beautiful memories. The Norquist Hale family.

Sina, Keith and Tina Wilcox

March 1, 2025

Sending our deepest sympathy. Please know you are in our thoughts.

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Sign Joshua Hoy's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

March 19, 2025

Janice and Jerry Humes posted to the memorial.

March 8, 2025

Walt Racker posted to the memorial.

March 8, 2025

Nancy Richwine posted to the memorial.