Fred Hoaglin obit

George Frederick Hoaglin Obituary

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George Frederick "Fred" Hoaglin passed away suddenly on August 1, 2026, with his wife, Jan, at his side. Known as "Pop" to his family and "Coach" to his many friends, Fred leaves behind countless people whom he loved deeply and who loved him in return.

Fred was preceded in death by his parents, George and Mary Jane Hoaglin, and his sister, Judith Hoaglin. He is survived by his beloved wife, Janet ("Jan"); his daughter, Patricia (Tim) Hoaglin; his son, Rick (Jocelyn) Hoaglin; his grandchildren, Andrew (Melinda) Compton, Kristina (Mark) Weingartner, Zachary Hoaglin, Dawson Hoaglin, Walker Hoaglin, and Lily Hoaglin; and his four great-grandchildren, Magnus, Emma, Miriam, and Abby. Fred also considered Lucas Sosa and Benjamin Yeung to be his "adopted grandchildren," and he cherished them as part of his family. He is also survived by his sister, Nancy, whom he loved dearly along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Fred graduated from East Palestine High School in 1962 and was inducted into the EPHS Hall of Fame in East Palestine, OH. He was recruited by the University of Pittsburgh to play football, where he also earned a degree in Industrial Engineering. In 1966, he was drafted by the Cleveland Browns and played center for six seasons, earning Pro Bowl honors in 1970. He later played for the Baltimore Colts, the Houston Oilers, and was a member of the inaugural Seattle Seahawks team in 1976.

Following his playing career, Fred dedicated himself to coaching, serving with the Detroit Lions (1978–1984), the New York Giants (1985–1992) where he won Super Bowls XXI & XXV, the New England Patriots (1993–1996), and the Jacksonville Jaguars (1997–2001). Throughout both his playing and coaching careers, Fred boldly lived out his Christian faith, investing in teammates, players, coaches, and countless others through his example, encouragement, and unwavering love for the Lord.

Once his NFL coaching career had ended, his passion for football never did. He continued to mentor young athletes & spent several years assisting the football program at Hilton Head High School , sharing his knowledge of the game & investing in the lives of countless players.

After retiring in 2001, Fred enjoyed spending time on the golf course with his many golf buddies, where the friendships were every bit as important to him as the game itself.

Above all, Fred will be remembered for his deep love for his family. Nothing brought him greater joy than spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He loved them unconditionally, prayed for them faithfully, and delighted in every opportunity to be together.

Fred never met a stranger. He shared his life and his faith with everyone he encountered, often "holding court" over coffee at McDonald's, where friends and strangers alike were drawn to his stories, humor, and genuine interest in others. He faithfully served in his church wherever he lived, participated in mission trips to Honduras and Mississippi, and rarely missed his weekly Life Group. His life was marked by a servant's heart, a generous spirit, and an unwavering commitment to sharing the love of Christ.

Although Fred's accomplishments on the football field were remarkable, those who knew him best will remember that football was never his greatest legacy. His greatest legacy was his faith in Jesus Christ, his devotion to his family, and the countless lives he influenced through his kindness, integrity, humility, and encouragement. Whether someone knew him as Pop, Coach, teammate, neighbor, or friend, they were better for having known him.

Fred will also be fondly remembered for his legendary stories, which could captivate any audience for as long as they were willing to listen. More often than not, those stories ended only when Jan would lovingly remind him, "Come on, Fred—we have to go!" It was a familiar refrain that brought smiles to everyone who knew them and perfectly captured the joy they shared together.

Though he will be deeply missed, Fred's family rejoices in the assurance that he is now in the presence of his Savior, whom he faithfully loved and served throughout his life. His legacy of faith, love, and service will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Visitation with the family will be on Friday, Aug. 7th from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Keith Funeral Home 63 Arrow Rd. Hilton Head Island, SC.  A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday Aug. 8th at 11:00 a.m. at Grace Community Church 450 Spanish Wells Rd. Hilton Head Island, SC. Reception to follow at Sea Pines Country Club 30 Governors Rd. Hilton Head Island, SC.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Fellowship of Christian Athletes Carolinas FCA P.O. Box 525 Rock Hill, SC 29731

At East Palestine, he played under coach Rey Dempsey.

In the 1966 Cleveland Browns season, Hoaglin was promoted from the taxi squad to the active roster after an injury to John Morrow. Hoaglin was a starting player on the Browns through 1972, starting all 14 games in four consecutive seasons and helping the team win multiple division titles while blocking for Pro Bowl and future Hall of Fame running back Leroy Kelly. He earned a Pro Bowl selection in 1969, and during his tenure the Browns reached the NFL championship in 1968 and 1969. After playing through a calf injury in 1971, he contributed to another division-winning season in 1972.