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Evansville council honors life of Rev. George Philip Hoyt with unanimous resolution
Summary
The council adopted Resolution C-2025-24 honoring Reverend George Philip Hoyt; family members and community leaders used the occasion to recall his work and urge continued advocacy on behalf of vulnerable groups.
The Evansville Common Council on Sept. 22 unanimously adopted Resolution C-2025-24 honoring the life and public service of Reverend George Philip Hoyt.
The resolution, adopted by an 8-0 roll-call vote, outlines Hoyt’s roles as an ordained minister, Vanderburgh County council member and state representative, and his nonprofit and civic work. Several council members and family members spoke at the meeting to recognize his community service.
Wendy Brethold, identifying herself as a former Evansville City Council member and daughter of Sandra Hoy, addressed the council and family members in the audience. Brethold said Hoyt "deeply reflected on what was right" and described his longstanding advocacy for vulnerable people. She urged the council to consider passing a separate resolution in support of gender-affirming care, calling such a stand "the most meaningful way to honor him." Brethold told the council: "Passing a resolution to make our city a safe haven for gender affirming care cost the city nothing financially, but it means everything to the young people and families who are being told by the state that their very existence is unacceptable."
Don Nichols, a resident and Central Labor Council delegate, also spoke to record Hoyt’s years serving as chaplain to the labor council.
Council members then voted by roll call — Mosby, Hieronymus, Carruthers, Kayler Lindsey, Brinkmeyer, Allen, Johnson and Green — and the resolution was declared adopted. The council recorded no dissents or abstentions.
The resolution text entered into the record lists Hoyt’s birthdate, ministerial service, legislative roles and awards, and expresses the council’s "deepest respect and appreciation" for his lifetime of service.
