Oliver Stark Hoard, 69 of Burlington, IA passed away Thursday, January 18, 2024 at Aspire of Donnellson in Donnellson, IA.

He was born September 1, 1954, in Chicago, IL the son of Howard and Eunice Starks Hoard. Oliver graduated from Harlem High School and later from Western Illinois University where he received his Bachelor's Degree.

He was married to Retha Cobbs. They later divorced, but remained close friends.

Oliver had been a dedicated minister who traveled throughout the country spreading faith. He also had worked as a counselor in the Mt. Pleasant Correctional Facility in Mt. Pleasant, IA

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His faith was an active and vital part of his life. He loved spreading the gospel and singing gospel music, pleasing God with every note he sang. Oliver enjoyed traveling, especially to Africa and he also loved to play chess.

He is survived by two sons, John Hoard (Michelle) of Keokuk and Steven Hoard of Cedar Rapids, IA and two grandchildren, Brenton Hoard and Kylee Hoard. He is also survived by six siblings, Howard Hoard, David Hoard, Gail Levy (Michael), Addie Robertson (Ray), James Allen and Tyron Allen (Jennifer) and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

A funeral service was held at 11 a.m., Saturday, January 27, 2024 at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA.

Visitation will be held prior to the service from 10-11 a.m., Saturday, at the funeral home with family meeting with friends at that time.

Memorials may be made to the family, for Oliver's grandchildren's education fund.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com