Byron Thomas “Tom” Hoover, 60, of Selma, Texas, passed away unexpectedly on March 20, 2026.

Tom was born on March 9, 1966, in Pass Christian, Mississippi, to Margaret and Hunter S. Hoover Sr., From an early age, his energetic and spirited personality stood out famously earning the “Greatest Pest Award” at a Boy Scout camp, a story that remained a lighthearted reflection of the humor he carried throughout his life.

Tom graduated from Richland Northeast High School in Columbia, South Carolina, in 1984, and went on to proudly serve his country in the United States Army for 24 years. A member of the 82nd Airborne Division and a proud Jumpmaster, the Army was not just something he did - it was a core part of who he was. His service took him across the United States and overseas, including deployments to Panama during Operation Just Cause and to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Throughout his career, Tom served as a recruiter, instructor, Station Commander, and Brigade Senior Trainer, mentoring and developing thousands of soldiers. He retired in 2008 as a Sergeant First Class, and earning his Jumpmaster qualification remained one of his proudest accomplishments. Following his military service, he earned both an Associate of Applied Science in Business Studies and a Bachelor of Science in Management from Wayland Baptist University in San Antonio.

If you knew Tom, you knew his laugh. He brought lightness into any room, quick with a joke and always able to make others feel at ease. He loved motorcycles, especially his Harley, and found joy on the open road, whether riding to Sturgis or along the Three Sisters.

Tom built strong relationships wherever he went and stayed connected to many throughout the years. His friendships meant a great deal to him, and he will be remembered for his humor, his stories, and the way he made people feel seen and valued.

He is survived by his daughter, Alyssa Steel and her husband Jonathan, his siblings: Hunter S. Hoover Jr., Tod J. Hoover, Karen Ann Cooper (Michael Cooper), Suzanne Paugh, and Warren Hoover. He also leaves behind many beloved nieces and nephews, as well as his cherished dog, Pepper, who was his constant companion. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Kimberly McMancus.

A funeral service with military honors will be held on Friday, April 17, 2026, at 9:15 AM at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, Pavilion #2 (1520 Harry Wurzbach Road, San Antonio, TX 78209). A Celebration of Life will follow from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at VFW Post 4676 (202 W Aviation Blvd, Universal City, TX 78148).

 In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the family’s GoFundMe to help support the unexpected financial and legal expenses following Tom’s passing.