Ben "Tom" Thomas Hoyt

Ben Thomas Hoyt, age 86, of Montgomery, Texas, passed away peacefully on July 9, 2026 after he took a fall at his home. He was born on June 14, 1940, in Delaware, Ohio, to the late Ben and Margaret Hoyt.

 

Before finding his lifelong calling, Ben proudly served his country with two years of dedicated service in the United States Army. Following his honorable discharge after spending time in France and Vietnam, he stepped into the world of broadcasting, launching a vibrant radio business career that would span his entire professional life.

 

He started in Columbus and moved to Houston (KRBE and KODA), Chicago (WMAQ, WLUP), San Diego (Westwood 1), Palm Desert, concluding at KFRG Radio in Colton, CA. Known for his sharp wit and deep passion for the airwaves, he masterminded the infamous "Disco Demolition" in Chicago at Comiskey Park on July 12, 1979 to mark the end of disco. Tom's voice and leadership left an indelible mark on the industry he loved so much, sometimes with a bang! 

 

Many people knew Tom from his years in the radio business, where he built countless friendships and connections. He genuinely treasured those relationships and the people he met along the way. To those who knew him, he was always quick with a conversation, a laugh, and a story. He loved to travel and had great interest in fine art sparked by his time in France. He was a passionate reader and the library was one of his happy places. He enjoyed being a part of the Charles B. Stewart Friends of the Library and fundraising for the library's programs and progress.

 

While he was proud of many things in his life, nothing brought him more joy than being a grandfather. His only granddaughter held a very special place in his heart, and he never missed an opportunity to tell others how proud he was of her.

 

He is survived by his son, Joshua Hoyt, and his wife, Melissa, along with his granddaughter, Lauren Hoyt; and his daughter, Samantha Hoyt, and her husband, David Calkins. His warmth, storytelling, and love for his family will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

 

May he rest in peace. Tom will be deeply missed and forever loved. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Friends of the Library are welcome: https://folstewart.org/donations/