Bill Text: MS SC522 | 2026 | Regular Session | Engrossed
Bill Title: Paying tribute to Mississippi musical icon Guy Hovis, Jr.
Sponsorship: Moderate Partisan Bill (Republican 5-1)
Status: (Passed) 2026-03-18 - Enrolled Bill Signed [SC522 Detail]
Download: Mississippi-2026-SC522-Engrossed.html
MISSISSIPPI LEGISLATURE
2026 Regular Session
To: Rules
By: Senator(s) Michel, Blount, Hopson, McCaughn, McLendon, McMahan
Senate Concurrent Resolution 522
(As Adopted by Senate)
A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION PAYING TRIBUTE TO THE MEMORY AND LEGACY OF MISSISSIPPI MUSICAL AND CULTURAL ICON GUY LEE HOVIS, JR.
WHEREAS, it is with profound sadness that we note the passing of Mississippi musician and television icon Guy Hovis, Jr., on January 22, 2026, at age 84. He leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to his family, friends, the State of Mississippi, and the many audiences he entertained over his lifetime; and
WHEREAS, Guy was born on September 24, 1941, in Tupelo, Mississippi, the son of Guy Lee Hovis, Sr., and Frances Hovis. From the age of five, he began singing in church, a passion that would become the foundation of a remarkable career spanning more than 40 years entertaining audiences of all ages all over America; and
WHEREAS, Guy graduated from the University of Mississippi in 1963 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting. While at Ole Miss, he was an active member of Sigma Nu Fraternity, where he gained lifelong friendships. During this time, Guy and his friends formed the "Chancellor's Quartet," a group of lifelong friends who sang together for decades. His time at Ole Miss also deepened his love of Rebel sports, and he remained a devoted fan throughout his life; and
WHEREAS, after graduating, Guy fulfilled his military service in the United States Army, including time at the Artillery Officer Candidate School at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, and completing Paratrooper School at Fort Benning, Georgia; and
WHEREAS, following his military service, Guy moved to Hollywood to begin his full-time music career. He was introduced to The Horn, a nightclub in Santa Monica where aspiring performers showcased their talent. There, Guy was discovered by a producer from The Art Linkletter House Party Show on CBS; and
WHEREAS, in 1969, Guy made his television debut on The Lawrence Welk Television Show, an initial performance that led to an invitation to join the Welk musical family. Guy went on to perform on The Lawrence Welk Show from 1970 until the series concluded in 1982, becoming a familiar and beloved presence to audiences nationwide; and
WHEREAS, beyond television, Guy recorded 15 albums, worked with such notable entertainers as Dinah Shore and Jim Nabors, and made guest appearances on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson, The Merv Griffin Show, and others; and
WHEREAS, in 1990, Guy returned to Mississippi and became Director of State Operations for his lifelong friend, former U.S. Senator Trent Lott for 17 years. In 2005, Guy performed "Let the Eagle Soar" at the 43rd Presidential Inauguration Ceremony for George W. Bush in Washington, D.C.; and
WHEREAS, throughout his life, Guy embraced opportunities to give back, such as performing at benefit concerts, supporting veterans' organizations, and participating in charity events. He was a regular contributor to the First Baptist Church services and television broadcasts. He also appeared in Mississippi Rising, a nationwide television special that raised millions of dollars for Hurricane Katrina relief efforts. He was inducted into the Mississippi Musicians Hall of Fame; and
WHEREAS, in retirement, Guy enjoyed a rich and active life filled with the things he loved most. He was an active member of Christ United Church, where he sang in the choir and was a member of the "New Yorkers" Sunday School class. Guy also treasured travel adventures with Sis to many destinations, most recently to the Holy Land and Italy; and
WHEREAS, Guy is survived by his beloved wife of 24 years, Sarah "Sis" Lundy Hovis; his sister, Joy Hovis Killebrew; his daughter, Julie Hovis-Diaz (Carlos); his stepdaughter, Dawn Moorhead Menard (Chane); his stepson, Hunter Moorhead (Amanda); and his grandchildren Blair, Mary Margaret, Tori, Sophie, Wilson and Reed; and
WHEREAS, Guy was known for his character, loyalty to those he loved, and long-standing commitment to his church. Whether through conversation, laughter, or simple acts of care, Guy made a lasting impression. He will be remembered with love and gratitude, and his memory will live on in the hearts of all who shared life with him. Those who were blessed to have spent time around Guy will always remember the music that followed him wherever he went; and
WHEREAS, we remember and cherish fondly the memory and legacy of this most public-spirited citizen of Mississippi:
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES CONCURRING THEREIN, That we do hereby pay tribute to the memory and legacy of Mississippi musical and cultural icon Guy Lee Hovis, Jr., and extend the condolences of the Legislature to his surviving family and friends and the thanks of a grateful state.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That this resolution be presented to the surviving family of Guy Hovis and be made available to the Capitol Press Corps.
