Gary Dean Hoover

The staff at Heishman Funeral Home, Inc. send condolences to the family of Gary Dean hoover. Today, we honor and celebrate the life of Gary Dean Hoover, who passed away on April 21, 2026, at the age of 84. Gary was born on November 19, 1941, in Broadway, Virginia, to the late Lloyd and Wilma Fawley Hoover. He graduated from Broadway High School in 1960 and proudly served his country as a member of the U.S. Army before dedicating 31 years to the Virginia State Police. In every role, he carried a deep sense of duty, integrity, and care for others. Gary’s life was defined by service, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to his community. From an early age, he embodied the qualities of a servant leader, serving as his high school class vice president and continuing that path of leadership throughout his life. He was a dedicated advocate for veterans and an active participant in local organizations. Gary was a member of the American Legion and AMVETS, where he helped orchestrate the ceiling tile project honoring veterans’ years of service. He was also a member of the VFW, where he most recently served as Auxiliary Chaplain, as well as a member of the Moose Lodge. In recent years, one of his deepest passions was the Hometown Hero Banner Project, ensuring that the service and sacrifice of others would always be remembered. Beyond his professional life, Gary’s heart was firmly rooted in his community. He generously gave his time in countless ways—driving the team bus for the New Market Rebels, the Woodstock River Bandits, and later Massanutten Military Academy, supporting young people and local athletics with quiet dedication. Another of Gary’s passions was his love of the open road—from driving a bus to riding his motorcycle. He cherished the fellowship and friendships he built through various riding organizations. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Ann Attaway Hoover; sister, Jane Garrett (Warren); sister-in-law, Carolyn (Carroll) Brummett; and brothers-in-law, Tony and Joe Attaway and Don Tusing. He is survived by his daughters, Terri Hoover Cella (John) of Staunton and Patty Hoover Hollins of Woodstock; his son, Chris Hoover (Tiffany) of Lexington, Kentucky; grandchildren John Hollins (Emily), Courtney Wagner (Sam), Geno Cella (Madelynn), Rachel Kuntz (John), and Emily Hoover; 14 great-grandchildren; sister, Elenor Tusing of Timberville; brother, Tom Hoover (Jane) of Bridgewater; in-laws Joan Kelly (John) of Nevada and John Attaway (Elaine) of Georgia; numerous nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends; and his beloved companion, Sophie. An escorted procession will begin at 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at Central High School in Woodstock, followed by a graveside service at Sunset Memorial Gardens. A celebration of life will follow at the VFW in Edinburg. Gary will be remembered for his steady presence, his selfless spirit, and the countless lives he touched through his acts of service. His legacy lives on in the community he helped strengthen and in the many people who were better for having known him. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Gary’s memory to one of the following organizations: National Fallen Officer Foundation, American Legion Post 199, VFW Post 2447, or AMVETS Post 11.

Gary Dean Hoover

November 19, 1941 - April 21, 2026