NEWS

Isabel S. Hoyle of Davidson, 98, died Feb 9, 2023. She was born May 26, 1924, in Lincolnton NC, the daughter of the late Luther Burgin and Mary Margaret (Thames) Scronce. She is predeceased by her husbands Edgar Stowe Beam, Sr. (1953) and Robert Turner Hoyle (2000), grandson Lee Taylor Beam (1984) and an infant brother, Luther.

Left to continue the legacy of her influence are son Edgar Stowe Beam, Jr. (Janis) of Davidson NC; grandsons Stowe (Daniella Reichstetter), David (Sarah), Rush (Erin Lane), daughter Carlette Beam Peters (Mike) of Raleigh, NC and daughter Roberta Hoyle (Ron Luciano) of Greensboro. She is also survived by her six great-grandchildren.

Growing up in Lincolnton, Isabel had a meaningful experience at Lincolnton High which provided her with countless cherished memories: from the classmates who were like family, the influence of her principal Dr. Ray Lowder, and her role on a state champion debate team. Due to the early death of her mother, she spent her teen years in the Clara Martin (Mrs. Fred Eaddy) household. This allowed her to finish high school “in town”. During her senior year, Isabel was voted “Most Friendly”, “Most Carefree” and “Best-All-Round”. Her least favorite – but so appropriate – superlative was “Noisiest”! She attended her 50th reunion in 1991. She and close friends got together for many years thereafter.

After graduation, Isabel’s enthusiasm and verve served her well at Kings Business College in Charlotte, NC. Afterwards, at Lucille’s – her one and only employer – she developed her love of fashion and quality. Back home in Lincolnton, she met and married Stowe Beam, a career officer in the Air Force. They enjoyed many appointments and developed relationships that endured throughout her lifetime. After a tragic air accident, she returned to Lincolnton to rear their two children alone. Happily, Helen McConnell Combs (then best friend, back-door neighbor, and “sister” she never had) expanded Isabel’s chosen family into the Cornelius and Davidson NC area – across the Catawba River. Helen introduced Isabel to Robert Hoyle, her childhood friend. His deep ties to the area helped them create a warm, new home together. The children of these two women and other dear friends – almost surrogate children – remained an important part of her life until the end. An annual celebration known as “Izzy Day” allowed the collective children of these women to get together to reminisce. One can barely imagine Isabel’s life without the presence of Helen’s children, Mary Anna Combs Rankin and Amy Combs Lockman.

In Davidson, Isabel embraced another small, active community with enthusiasm. With a new baby, combined family and Robert’s business, Isabel’s life was quite involved. She believed in staying busy and she made certain her children did, as well. She was a lifelong Bridge player, crossword aficionado and avid reader. These activities kept her witty and sharp, until very late in life. Her daily crossword puzzle and hands of Solitaire were common sights when visiting in her home. Nevertheless, her pride and joy were family, and she did everything she could to provide them with purposeful experiences. She and Robert were long-time members of Davidson United Methodist Church. Isabel often said that she endured early hardships, which allowed for a more prosperous adult life. These experiences helped her feel sincere gratitude for the life and family she had. She lived much of her long life happily in an historic house, where she made her home with Robert and family. Verity Hager (Home Carolina) spent more than eight years lovingly and patiently caring for Isabel – and the family – to ensure her ability to age in place in that home. Isabel lived the last two years of her life under the compassionate care of Autumn Care of Cornelius, Joyce Davis, RN and staff of Hospice and Palliative Care Lake Norman.

Burial will be private. Friends are invited to attend a memorial service at Davidson United Methodist Church on Feb 18, 2023 at 2 PM. Any memorials may be directed to Davidson United Methodist Church.
James Funeral home is assisting the family. Condolences may be offered at www.jamesfuneralhomelkn.com.