Deborah L. Hogan

November 29, 1948 - April 30, 2021

Deborah L. Hogan, 72, of Hardy, Virginia, who lived life to the fullest every moment of the day, was called home to Heaven on Friday, April 30, 2021.

Debbie, as she was known to her loved ones, was born on November 29, 1948. She graduated from Patrick Henry High School as an accomplished athlete and scholar. Debbie craved the written word and knowledge, which led her to Virginia Tech for her undergraduate degree and Radford for her master's degree. Debbie used her wisdom gained from her education to serve her community as a decorated police officer. Debbie Hogan worked for Roanoke County and eventually obtained the position of Chief of Police at Ferrum College, where she taught several classes. Ever a student of life, she enjoyed learning as much as she could about space, ocean life, and forensics.

Every summer, after the college let out, she would turn her Beach Boys music up and head to the beach. Debbie's soul yearned for the beach; she would be on the shoreline by 7 a.m. and not come in for the day until 3 p.m., where she would promptly remind everyone, they had to be showered and dressed for dinner by 4 p.m. to get into a restaurant at Myrtle Beach.

She always told her loved ones she wanted to soak in and make the most of every experience, and she did. Debbie's life was one full of diligent work, genuine kindness, and an abundance of love. Debbie's faith in God was profound. Her family and friends respected and admired her.

While Debbie has been welcomed home by both of her parents, who preceded her in death, Debbie's legacy lives on through her loved ones. She is survived by her brother, Curtis Hogan; Debbie's long-time friend, Lois Roche; her god children, Jeremiah Roche, Jessica Curulla, and Jarret Roche; several astounding neighbors; and numerous other friends who were dear to her heart. Debbie L. Hogan's legacy lives on in those who knew and loved her. Simply, to know Debbie was to love her.

A celebration of life service will be held at a later date due to the COVID-19 restrictions. Online condolences may be shared with her family at www.oakeys.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Roanoke Times on May 11, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
for Deborah Hogan

Sponsored by Oakey’s North Chapel.

8 Entries

Sgt. Christopher Froeschl, Vinton PD

January 15, 2022

I don't know what made me think of Debbie today as I had not been in contact with her for several years. I decided to look her up and this is what I found. Although I had been in Law Enforcement in another state, Debbie gave me my start here in Virginia, specifically at Ferrum College. Thank you Debbie for the opportunity and I miss our heated debates about things like warning shots and checking the boiler. Rest in Peace Debbie, we will now retire the chicken costume. May it never be worn again.....

Dan Baker

May 13, 2021

She taught me at Ferrum. Such a great person.

Thomas Guill

May 12, 2021

Rip Debbie

Terry OShaughnessy

May 12, 2021

The world lost a good one. I´m sorry for her brother Curtis and her close friend Lois. We grew up together in the Wasena section of Roanoke. Debbie was the smart one. She´ll be missed.

Bonnie Smiley Wells

May 11, 2021

Curtis,
So sorry to learn of the loss of your sister. She sounds like an extraordinary woman. Thinking of you fondly from years past in Roanoke, and especially during this sad time. In sympathy and prayer - Bonnie

Marcia Simmons

May 11, 2021

Seeing this notice today about Debbie was quite a shock to me. I have known her for many years. We partnered on many cases when she worked for Roanoke County, and then I saw her frequently when she was at Ferrum. She even tried to get me to come work with her when at Carilion. She was such a dedicated person to her work, to friends, and to family. I enjoyed her great sense of humor and her love of the beach. I enjoyed mischief, laughter, meals, and being on the water at her lake house with her. We had to deal with such serious issues at work, it was wonderful to enjoy these off-work times with her. It has been some time since we had been together, but we exchanged Christmas cards each year with an update and the promise to go to the beach or at least meet for a meal. I know she cared deeply for her family and friends, and I hope you all find peace in knowing you walked with one of the best. A celebration of a life indeed. Debbie will be missed.

Mike Alexander

May 11, 2021

Though I have lived in Texas most of my life I spent a big chunk of my childhood just up the street from the Hogans. That afforded me the opportunity to get to know Debbie. She was older and wiser (about 6 years) but she was always kind to us "kids". She was quick to smile so I remember her keen sense of humor especially. She had a way of making you feel welcome and valued (even as a "punk kid" like I was). I am sincerely sorry to hear of her passing. Curtis, my old friend, my thoughts and prayers are with you.

Gail Holley

May 11, 2021

Debbie was such a sweet and caring person. Always made you laugh and always had that sweet smile. Missed not seeing her on a regular basis after she left Ferrum, however, when we did run into each other it was as if we hadn't missed a day. Prayers for her dear family.

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