Hoyt Haynes Stephens

Hoyt Haynes Stephens, 82, of Suffolk, VA, passed away peacefully at home on October 4, 2026, after battling COPD and Alzheimer’s disease. His wife and two daughters were by his side during his last days and as he took his final breath.

Hoyt was born on August 3, 1944, in Conway, SC, and was the youngest of three children. His parents, Martha Hughes and Alvie Stephens, preceded him in death, along with his sister, Alva Jane Skipper, and brother, Phil Stephens. He graduated from Conway High School before joining the Army National Guard.

Growing up in a small town in South Carolina, Hoyt dedicated much of his time and energy to his passion for sports, especially basketball. Known for his tall, slim stature and skinny legs, he proudly became known to his peers and teammates as “Tweety Bird.” When he wasn’t playing sports, you could find him working, socializing, and dancing the “Shag” up and down Ocean Boulevard.

Hoyt met the love of his life, Patsy Reid, in Charlotte, NC, where Patsy was attending college. The two lived in the same apartment building and became quick friends. Hoyt would sometimes shine Patsy's shoes before she went on a date, but what she didn’t know was that she would eventually fall for his charm and become his future wife. Excited to start their new life together, the two were married on September 24, 1967, in Statesville, NC, and had just celebrated their 59th wedding anniversary.

Hoyt and Patsy created a beautiful family together. Hoyt leaves behind his beloved wife, Patsy Reid Stephens, of Suffolk, VA; two daughters, Julie Elizabeth Lyons of Suffolk, VA (Curtis), and Jennifer Stephens Dwiggins of Mooresville, NC; and three grandchildren, whom he absolutely adored and who called him “Chief.” They are Jackson Curtis Lyons of Miami, FL; Savannah Reid Dwiggins of Wilmington, NC; and Alexa Faith Lyons of Columbia, SC.

As his daughters were raised in Iredell County, beginning in elementary school, Hoyt became extremely dedicated and involved in the Iredell County Youth Athletic Association (ICYAA). He participated in each school they attended, serving on boards, as president of various associations, and, of course, coaching or refereeing in any sport he could. His presence and commitment to family and community involvement became evident to many. Hoyt became a fixture not just in athletics but in any way he could participate in and support the school system. He once served for a short time on the Iredell County School Board. His most memorable legacy was his dedication and commitment to North Iredell High School from 1983–1991. You could find him at every basketball game, Booster Club event, or fundraiser. He eventually secured his spot at Raider Ravine in the press box, calling each home football game. His iconic wolf howl and commentary eventually made Hoyt known as “THE VOICE OF THE RAIDERS.”

Hoyt had a natural charisma that led him to pursue a career in sales. His professional career was spent successfully in the electrical industry for 54 years. His most rewarding time was with T.F. Farmer Company out of Greensboro, NC, where he spent 32 years. Hoyt spent most of his time out in the field, building lasting relationships. His natural ability to connect with people and his passionate spirit carried over into his business life. Hoyt was an integral part of the Carolinas Electrical Contractors Association (CECA) for more than 40 years. He served as one of the first Associate Members of the CECA Board of Directors. Over the years, he recruited new members who went on to become leaders in CECA and the electrical industry. There was nothing he liked more than meeting a young CECA member and taking them under his wing to show them how beneficial CECA could be to their career. Where Hoyt probably shined most was in his most recent role as CECA Convention and Events Chairman. He held the position for nearly 15 years, until his health prompted him to step down. During his tenure, he grew the CECA Convention into one of the premier networking events in the electrical industry, while also adding other events that continue to grow and thrive.

He was an avid golfer and spent a lot of time on many courses with colleagues and friends. So many had the experience of being in a tournament he played in, organized, or maybe even won! And if you were part of his foursome, that’s a memory you could never forget. Hoyt loved going back to his roots while attending SOS (Society of Stranders) in his late adult years. That’s where he could once again show off his talent for dancing the “Shag” all up and down Ocean Boulevard.

As a native of South Carolina, Hoyt brought his love for the Clemson Tigers with him to North Carolina. You could usually catch him wearing either orange, white, purple, or all of the above on any given game day, from his shoes all the way up to his hat. Superstitious to a fault, he had a strict game-day ritual during a winning streak. Hoyt shared many memories with his family that they will always cherish surrounding the Clemson Tigers. His legacy will continue on… Go Tigers!

He was a Master Mason and Member of North Iredell Masonic Lodge #226 AFAM and received a 50 year certificate recognizing his membership. Hoyt was also a Shriner.

Hoyt worked hard and played hard. He wasn’t just the life of the party; he WAS the party. And always remember the quote he would say as he left your presence: “If you need me, I’ll call ya!”

In accordance with his wishes, no formal service will be held. A private family gathering will be held at a later date.

The family requests that donations in Hoyt’s memory be directed to:

The Bob Patterson Memorial Scholarship Fund c/o Eric Patterson 109 Verna Drive Statesville, NC 28625

The Construction Education Foundation of the Carolinas (DBA John Moore Elec Indust Asstnce) c/o CECA 9715 Northeast Parkway, Suite 300 Matthews, NC 28105