Helen Elaine (Gunby) Hogan, 93, died peacefully in her sleep in her home on August 30, 2017. She was born November 23, 1923 in Clovis, NM. The middle child of 5. Her parents were Hazel Marie (Sharpnack) Gunby and Matthew James Gunby. The family moved to Tucson when she was 9 years old. She attended Mansfield Middle School, Tucson High School and the University of Arizona. She was a Girls Athletic Assn medal winner and majored in Physical Education at the U of A. In 1945, she moved into the Barbizon Hotel in NYC to pursue a modeling career. On her return to Arizona she married Thomas E. "Shanty" Hogan on June 1, 1946. He later became the head football coach and athletic director at Phoenix College. Over the years she worked for many charities including the American Cancer Society, where she moved up to a district manager for a time and served in the Phoenix College Faculty wives and participated in many of their charitable endeavors. However her family came first. She was a tireless supporter of her husband and children and mused that she should have counted all of the stadium steps she had climbed over the years. She boasted of never missing any of her husband's football games or any of his semi-pro baseball games managing to have all of her children outside the seasons. Whether it was flying up to visit her daughter Kathleen's family when they lived in Minneapolis, cruising on her son Patrick's pontoon boat, or attending her daughter Kelley's plays, she was always their biggest supporter. Her generosity was legendary. She gave of herself in the many Christmas gifts she made for others over many years or her later hobby of making nametags and slogans on a plastic grid interlaced with yarn that she gave to all she encountered: nurses, doctors, employees at many stores and restaurants, her daughter's students, and her grandchildren's friends and colleagues. She also spent endless hours at her sewing machine making costumes, and sewing and mending for everyone she knew. She was a funny and vibrant woman who helped anyone and everyone who asked for help. She once said that we shouldn't grieve for her when she was gone because she had a wonderful life. She said she had wonderful husband, children, and grandchildren and felt blessed to have had the opportunity to travel to Europe, Canada, and throughout the US. She is survived by her daughter Kathleen Marie Harris, son-in-law Patrick Harris, granddaughter, Kristin Marie Wolfe and her husband Jason Wolfe, Grandson Bryan Patrick Harris and Maren Mueller and daughter Kelley Maureen Hogan, a sister Mildred Anne Epperson and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband Thomas E. "Shanty" Hogan and her son Patrick T. Hogan. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the American Cancer Society. A celebration of life will take place Friday, September 8, 2017 from 2:00-4:00pm with a service starting at 2:00. Services will be held at A.L. Moore-Grimshaw Mortuary 710 W. Bethany Home Road, Phoenix, AZ 85013.
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September 28, 2017
Acquaintance
Francisca S
Helen Hogan was always very sweet to me, it was a pleasure to assist her . On behalf of the Bank, We will all remember her. Many of us were blessed to be given a Crochet Door Hanger with our names. My condolences to her family Kat, Pat and Kelley. -Fran
September 23, 2017
Daughter
Kathy Harris
Dearest Mom,
No daughter could ask for a more special Mom. You were my best friend and confidante! I will miss you so, but will always have our special memories!
Love you!
Kathy
September 18, 2017
Amy Jascourt
I met Mrs. Hogan recently and feel blessed to have had that brief encounter. She was full of spunk, smiles and a pleasure to talk with. My sincere condolences to her family and friends. Always remember the wonderful times you had with her. She will be forever in your hearts. Amy
September 15, 2017
Tom Atha
She was a wonderful support for the theatre at East Los Angeles College and her daughter's plays especially. She had a smile for everyone.
September 13, 2017
D. Romans 15:33 Andrews
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
September 11, 2017
John Gunby
Aunt Helen will remain with me forever as her smile and easy-going personality was always present. She led a remarkable life, endured some set-backs and challenges and loved her family with all of her heart & soul. My best & love to Kathy & Kelley. John Gunby
September 7, 2017
Blanca Melchor
I'll miss your hugs your words and your smile thank you for sharing this beautiful light with me I will miss you
September 6, 2017
Cheri Stallings LaBarbera
My heartfelt condolences to all the Hogan family! She led a long, full life; but it's still hard to say goodbye. None of you will forget all the great times and memories.
September 6, 2017
Ann Veeh
I read Helen's beautifully written obituary in the Republic this morning and it made me smile to remember such a special lady. Helen and Shanty were friends of my parents, Don & Betty Golden. She did a wonderful job of keeping in touch with my dad once my mom passed, even attending his 100th birthday party. I'll always remember her kindness and her smiling face. She lived a great life.
September 5, 2017
Millie Sirmons
Hi my family I'm so sorry for your loss. I have very special memories of auntie Helen.
I'll tell you a little secret and all the great taco's and flap jacks has always stayed with me. Many swim dates in the pool and the love.
Much love and hugs
Millie
September 5, 2017
Jerry Eaton
"It's time to come home, Helen," Jesus told you while you slept. You emerged young, beautiful, and eager to rejoin Shanty and Pat. "My goodness," you exclaimed, "how gorgeous it is here. It's so wonderful to be home." In addition to Shanty and Pat there's a huge crowd waiting to say hello to you. "What took so long?" they ask. "We've been waiting for you." Dozens of men, women, and children who knew you while you were away move forward to hug you and kiss your cheek. And there among them are all the football players you rooted for while Shanty was coaching. .You know the names of every one of them. 'Welcome home, Helen,' they cry in unison. "Welcome home."
September 5, 2017
Friend
Valerie Dugan
Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to you, Kelley and your precious family. Your mother was a true blessing to all that were blessed to know her! I still cherish her Christmas Noodle Angels and her round "TUIT's!! She will be dearly missed!
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2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
A.L. Moore-Grimshaw Mortuaries Bethany Chapel710 West Bethany Home Road, Phoenix, AZ 85013
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A.L. Moore-Grimshaw Mortuaries Bethany Chapel710 West Bethany Home Road, Phoenix, AZ 85013
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