Rock Hill, SC, August 22, 2025
News Summary
Martha Patricia ‘Patty’ Hovis, a dedicated member of the Rock Hill community, passed away, leaving behind a legacy of family commitment and community support. Known for her warm personality, Patty was an active mother to her four sons and cherished grandmother to eight grandsons. A proud Winthrop University graduate, she contributed over 17 years to The Federal Land Bank and other local organizations. A public Celebration of Life is planned to honor her generous spirit.
Rock Hill, SC – Winthrop University Alumna Patty Hovis Remembered for Her Dedication to Family and Community
Martha Patricia “Patty” Armstrong Hovis, a beloved member of the Rock Hill community, passed away peacefully on August 19, 2025, surrounded by her husband, Steve Hovis. Patty, born on May 31, 1954, was well-known for her deep commitment to her family and unwavering support of her community.
Born to the late Bob and Betty Armstrong in Rock Hill, SC, Patty was the second of four daughters, surviving alongside Cathy Kemp, Jane Armstrong, and Gaye Ehmann. Her childhood was marked by joy and activity, featuring pursuits such as riding horses, playing softball, and serving as a varsity cheerleader at Rock Hill High School. She later became a proud graduate of Winthrop University, where she laid the foundation for her professional career.
Patty began her career right after graduation at The Federal Land Bank, where she dedicated over 17 years of service. Following this, she worked at the law firm Kennedy Covington Lobdell & Hickman before becoming the Office Manager at Hamilton Martens Ballou and Sipe (current name: Hamilton Martens, LLC). Her career was characterized by dependability and excellence; in the last year and a half of her life, she only missed two days of work while battling cancer.
As a mother, Patty was the driving force behind her four sons: Brian, Brett, Ross, and Reid, with her husband Steve. She prioritized education and remained an active presence at her sons’ athletic events, instilling core values of hard work and integrity in them. Patty witnessed her sons marry Cece Moseley, Casey Nickles, Carrie Horne, and Savannah Watkins, and she proudly became a grandmother to eight grandsons: Grayden, Briggs, Jacks, Houston, William, Raines, Waylon, and Barrett. She enjoyed creating memorable experiences for them through various activities and special meals.
Patty was known for her grace and style, often being referred to as a true Southern Belle. Her caring nature and engaging personality made her a familiar face at local events, including tailgating at Clemson games. The community cherished her generous spirit and love for life, which resonated with everyone she encountered.
In honor of Patty Hovis, a private graveside service will be held for family and close friends. A public Celebration of Life service has been scheduled for August 25, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. John’s United Methodist Church in Rock Hill, SC. The Hovis family has requested memorial donations to a charity of choice in lieu of flowers, encouraging the continuation of Patty’s legacy of generosity and community involvement.
Key Milestones in Patty Hovis’ Life
- Birth: May 31, 1954
- Death: August 19, 2025
- Education: Winthrop University Graduate
- Professional Career: 17+ years at The Federal Land Bank, law firm Kennedy Covington Lobdell & Hickman, Office Manager at Hamilton Martens LLC
- Children: Four sons—Brian, Brett, Ross, Reid
- Grandchildren: Eight grandsons
- Celebration of Life: August 25, 2025, at St. John’s United Methodist Church
FAQ
Who was Patty Hovis?
Martha Patricia “Patty” Armstrong Hovis was a Winthrop University graduate known for her dedication to her family and the community in Rock Hill, SC.
What dates are significant in Patty Hovis’ life?
Patty was born on May 31, 1954, and passed away on August 19, 2025. A Celebration of Life service is scheduled for August 25, 2025.
What was Patty’s career background?
Patty worked for over 17 years at The Federal Land Bank and held positions at a law firm and as Office Manager at Hamilton Martens LLC. She was recognized for her dedication and reliability.
How many children and grandchildren did Patty have?
Patty had four sons and eight grandsons.
What will happen after Patty’s passing?
A private graveside service will be held, and a public Celebration of Life service is set for August 25, 2025, at St. John’s United Methodist Church. The family requests memorial donations to a charity of choice in lieu of flowers.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Palmetto Funeral Group: Patty Hovis Obituary
- Wikipedia: Rock Hill, South Carolina
- Legacy.com: Betty Armstrong Obituary
- Legacy.com: Rock Hill Obituaries
- Google Search: Winthrop University
Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
The ROCK HILL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERockHill.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Rock Hill, York County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Come-See-Me Festival, Rock Hill Arts Festival, and motorsport events at the Rock Hill Velodrome. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Rock Hill Chamber of Commerce and the Culture & Heritage Museums, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and technology that power the local economy such as 3D Systems and Comporium. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
