Raymond Timmons Hoagland

Ray Hoagland of Medford Leas passed away on Friday, December 17, in Medford, NJ at the age of 101. Born in New Brunswick, he grew up in Ewing Township before graduating from Trenton Central High School and Trenton State College. Ray entered military service in 1942 as an aviation cadet candidate and graduated from the Army Air Corps Flying School Program. After B-17 training he joined the 437th Bomber Group 8th Air Force. He flew as airplane commander in the European Field of Operations. After the war he joined the Air Force Reserves, retiring as a Major serving our country for 20 years. Ray earned a Masters in Education at the University of Pennsylvania. For 36 years he taught Physical Education, Health, and classroom driver training at Rancocas Valley Regional High School in Mt. Holly. For 30 years he coached track and field, cross country for 20 years, and was Athletic Director and department chair for 25 years – all at RV. Coach Ray Hoagland was inducted into the South Jersey Track and Field Officials Hall of Fame, the SJ Track and Field Coaches Hall of Fame, the Burlington County Track Coaches Hall of Fame, the RVRHS Hall of Fame, and was honored on numerous occasions for his track and cross country teams’ successes. In December 2000, he was recognized by the State Athletic Association for coaching achievement. After his retirement he continued to officiate cross country and track meets. Throughout his career and retirement, he was a beloved teacher, coach, mentor, and father figure to many young men. Ray served the community as a member of the Mount Holly Rotary Club and the Lions Club of Cranbury. For 4 years he served as a member of the Mt. Holly Town Council, and was both a deacon and elder in the Mt. Holly and Cranbury Presbyterian Churches. He enjoyed golf, traveling extensively, and visiting family at every opportunity. He especially valued being in touch with former students and their families. His wife of 72 years Kathryn “Kay” Hoagland pre-deceased him in April 2020. Ray is survived by 3 daughters and spouses: Marianne and Bob McCreight of Mercer, PA; Peggy and Randy Young of Richmond, VA; and Gretchen and Donald Patrick of Mt. Laurel, NJ. Also 6 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 23rd at 3pm at the track at Rancocas Valley Regional High School. All friends, colleagues, former students, former athletes and any member of the RVRHS community, past or present, are welcome to join the family to celebrate the life of a beloved father, grandfather, teacher, coach, military veteran, mentor and community leader. Arrangements by the Perinchief Chapels, Mount Holly; www.perinchief.com.

Raymond Timmons Hoagland

November 30, 1920 - December 17, 2021