Hoover Darrel Niece was born in 1948 in Fleming-Neon, Kentucky, and raised in Cain Hollow of Letcher County. A proud graduate of Whitesburg High School, he completed his education in 1966 before marrying his high school sweetheart, Sharon Faye Garrett in 1969. Hoover continued his education at Eastern Kentucky University, graduating in 1971.
With a dedication of over 29 years, Hoover taught at Estill County High School, where he made a lasting impact as a football coach for the Estill County Engineers for 27 years. He was deeply committed to mentoring young men, earning recognition for his contributions to the sport. In 1997, Estill County High School honored him by dedicating their football field as Hoover Niece Field. He was later inducted into the Dawahare’s KHSAA Hall of Fame in 2022, a testament to his legacy.
Hoover is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Sharon Faye Niece; three sons, Jeremy Darrel Niece (Lynn), Andar Scott Niece (Jenny), and Stanley Wayne Niece (Nicole). He cherished his six grandsons, Austyn Niece (Olivia), Trevyn Niece, Ty Niece, Jax Niece, Luke Niece, Kayson Niece, and his one granddaughter, Willa Faye Niece. Hoover took great pride in his two great-grandchildren, Ava Mae Niece and Jace Garrett Niece.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Hoover Niece and Rena Vay Niece. Hoover is also survived by his sister, Lesha Niece Zvosec (Chuck), his brother, Stanley Niece (Cheryl), beloved nieces, nephews, and his best friends, Mike Holcomb and Donald Richardson.
Hoover enjoyed watching his grandchildren play sports, spending time on the lake, gardening, and caring for his animals. While basketball was his favorite sport, his passion for coaching football allowed him to profoundly influence many lives. Known affectionately as "Hoover's Boys," his players and students will forever remember his heartfelt dedication. Hoover was so proud of and loved his sons, grandchildren, and all “Hoover’s Boys”.
Pallbearers will include his grandsons: Austyn Niece, Trevyn Niece, Ty Niece, Jax Niece, Luke Niece, and Kayson Niece. Honorary Pallbearers include: Buddy Arvin, Shawn Jones, David Harper, Billy Bruce Wiseman, Tom Moatts, and Dean Moatts.
Hoover's spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of all whose lives he touched. He will be greatly missed.
Funeral services will be conducted Monday, April 13, 11 AM, at the Warren F. Toler Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Chris Winkler officiating. Burial will be at the Sunset Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be held on Sunday from 6 to 9 PM.
In lieu of flowers, the family has asked to make donations to the Estill Football Legends Club in Hoover’s honor.
Estill Football Legends Club
75 Panorama View
Irvine, KY 40336
