James Hoyle, Assistant Trainer at John Toney Stables for 35 years, died on April 11, 2013, after a brief sudden illness. His partnership with John Toney produced many world champion racking horses and many top walking horses. He was an avid UNC Tarheels Basketball Team fan.
 
Hoyle was known by almost anyone who showed on the eastern Tennessee and North Carolina show circuit. He was cared for and highly respected by the John Toney Stables family and friends and will be greatly missed by them.
 
Although he usually worked behind the scenes, while helping Paul Livingston Stables finish out the fall show season, he had the opportunity to show Vegas Ritz. At the end of that winning ride, there could be no doubt as to the ability of James Hoyle with a horse. He was a true professional and well-respected horseman.
 
Hoyle is survived by sisters Sheila Hoyle, Pamela Hoyle and Teresa Dunlap and a brother Thomas Hoyle; several nieces and nephews.
 
A memorial service will be held at a future date. Condolences and memorial donations for final expenses can be sent to the Hoyle family in care of Sheila Hoyle, 3023 Knollwood Drive, Gastonia, NC 28052.