Eric Erkan Nebil Hovis, 42, of 115 Chasewoods Court, Simpsonville passed away Saturday, January 24, 2026, at Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Hospital. He was born May 3, 1983, in Charlotte, North Carolina to Sengul Kaynak Hovis of Greenville and the late John Leighton Hovis. He was Head of Project Management with Zumidian.
From his teenage years, Eric was an avid online gamer, a passion that became more than a hobby-it became a way he connected with others. Through gaming, he formed lasting friendships with people from around the country, many of whom he later had the opportunity to meet in person. Even as life changed and responsibilities grew, Eric stayed in touch with his online friends, valuing those connections and the memories they shared.
As Eric began his own family, they quickly became his greatest priority and source of pride. He was devoted, dependable, and deeply caring, always putting his loved ones first. Family wasn’t just important to Eric-it was central to who he was.
Eric also loved getting outside and playing disc golf. Being on the course brought him peace, enjoyment, and a chance to get out. Beach trips with family and friends became a yearly tradition, and he realized he loved treasure hunting, like shark’s teeth and cool rock/stones.
Eric really enjoyed helping at The Wine Gallery and becoming part of the community of Woodruff. He had recently taken over the dessert making role for the Wine Club. Eric will be remembered for his kindness, his loyalty, his sense of humor, and his ability to form meaningful connections-both online and in life.
Surviving is his wife, Rachel Johnson of the home; two daughters, Adalet “Adi” Hovis and Everly Johnson both of the home; one brother, Erol Hovis of Greenville.
A Service of Remembrance will be held at a later date at the Wine Gallery, 220 South Main Street, Woodruff
Memorial contributions may be made to the Hovis Family Fund c/o First Citizens Bank, 255 South Main Street, Woodruff, S.C. 29388 Lanford-Gwinn Mortuary
Author: Vareva Harris
