William M. Hoxter, Jr.

On the evening of May 10, 2023, William Melvin Hoxter, Jr., fondly called Bill or Junior by his loved ones and church community, passed away peacefully. His devoted wife of 29 years, Lola Hoxter, was by his side during this time.

Bill was the firstborn child to the late William M. Hoxter, Sr., and Mozella Faulk-Hoxter. He was born on August 29 ^th , 1941, weighing only two pounds and two ounces and measuring 20 inches long. His parents considered him to be a true miracle. Soon after his birth, they proudly introduced their resilient firstborn to family and friends.  Along with other family members, they nourished and loved Bill into the man he became.

In June 1960, Bill completed his studies at the esteemed Howard High School. He further pursued his education at Northeastern University in Boston, Massachusetts, where he specialized in drafting. Later, he attended the Delaware Engineering Training School. Bill was an avid learner and dedicated to his work.

Bill held various positions in multiple companies, with his most prominent role being a Draftsman at General Motors and later at EDLON. At EDLON, he designed cutting-edge equipment parts for renowned clients like ICI, DuPont, and Texaco. He completed an AutoCAD course to stay updated with the industry's latest advancements. This state-of-the-art software enabled him to create two-dimensional and three-dimensional drawings, improving his Architectural and Engineering designs. Bill mastered the hi-tech environment that was swiftly taking over the industry with the help of AutoCAD.

In 1994, he made the decision to become self-employed and established the HOXTER DESIGN SYSTEM company. As an entrepreneur, Bill was responsible for designing various churches within the Delaware Valley, such as Carter Temple, Church of the First Born, Church of the Living Word, and Pilgrim Baptist Church, among others. He also played a significant role in the decision-making process of building and construction projects at Sharon Temple. His remarkable achievements were not unnoticed by the community, who asked him to showcase his work on Channel 22. Bill humbly accepted and shared his accomplishments. His love for his job and his desire for perfection were evident in every project he undertook. He used his talents as a ministry to serve God and His people.

Bill was the proud father of William Andre, Carla, Artie, Jawann, Debbie, and Tania. Bill had an astounding love for his children and was very protective of them.  He often referred to his siblings as his “best friends,” and he loved their spouses with genuine affection.

At a young age, he found solace in faith, but it wasn't until later that he truly strengthened his connection with God. Pastor Claude Harris baptized him on November 11, 1993, to symbolize his renewed commitment. He married his close friend of three years, Lola T. Brown, on January 2, 1994, and their unwavering love and loyalty lasted twenty-nine years.

Bill played an active and vital role in the Sharon Temple SDA Church and Allegheny East Conference, contributing his tithes and talents to various ministries. He took on important responsibilities such as Usher, Greeter, Adventist Men's Leader, Bay Area Men's Leader, Building Committee Chair, and Head Deacon. Moreover, he was an integral part of the Community Service team and served as the Security Team Advisor for the church. His dedication was recognized through the 2009 Godly Man of the Year plaque and the 2009 Sharon Temple Community Service Award.

Master William M. Hoxter, Jr. was a highly accomplished 6-degree black belt earning him numerous trophies and accolades. He had a passion for teaching physical fitness and self-defense and successfully conducted Karate classes for over 20 years as part of his mentorship program at Sharon Temple. His impressive dedication and hard work caught the attention of Professor Cephas, Sr., a distinguished board member of the Masters 2002 Hall of Fame. This prestigious honor recognizes exceptional achievements in Martial Arts, solidifying Master Hoxter's status as a true martial arts master.

Bill was grateful for the guidance he received from several spiritual leaders, including Pastor Fordham, Pastor C. D. Brooks, Dr. Trusty, Pastor Harris, Pastor Boyce, Pastor Jenkins, and Pastor Jimmy Ferguson. Through their tutelage, he became a faithful believer, follower of the Word, and servant of the Lord.

Bill had a multitude of hobbies and interests, including bowling, in which he was a member of the 1996 Allegheny East Conference Bowling Champions. He enjoyed taking long walks, reading the Bible, listening to classical and jazz music, going to airshows, designing architecture, and engaging in political discussions. Bill spent many hours watching CNN and the History Channel to stay informed on current and historical events. Additionally, he possessed musical skills, having sung in a group during his earlier years and playing the piano.

Bill was a gentle and kind-hearted individual whose character could be best described through the Fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). He cherished his life and made the most of it. Among his favorite tunes were "My Redeemer Lives" and "The Midnight Cry," while his preferred Bible verse was Job 19:25.

William Melvin Hoxter, Jr. leaves to cherish his memory; his devoted wife, Lola T. (Brown)-Hoxter. His beloved children; William Andre Hoxter (Tonya) - (Mother Mattie), Tania Hoxter (Mother Francis), and Debbie and Jawaan (Mother Tina).  Three brothers, whom he often referred to as his “lifetime best friends”: Louis Hoxter (Charlotte), Lawrence Hoxter, and Timothy Hoxter (Gertrena). One loving sister Joan Benson (Larry), his sister-in-law Loretta Brown-Wilson and his kind-hearted mother-in-law, Mildred Brown.  His precious grandchildren: Stephanie, Tiffany, David, James, William, Wyatt, and Gabriel, and great-grandchildren.

He is survived by his stepchildren, Natasha, Crystal, and Yvonne, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and church family who loved him dearly.

His spiritual sons: Paul Washington, Christopher Jackson, and Terron Adlam, will cherish special memories of him.

He was preceded in death by one sister Debbie Jones: three children, Carla Hoxter, Artie Hoxter (Mattie) and William M. Hoxter, III (Lola). One granddaughter, Monet Hoxter-Hamner.

Memorial service will be held at the Congo Legacy Center, 501 West 28 St. Wilm., DE 19802 on Wednesday May 24,2023 at 2 pm