Leah Gay Hogue

Leah Gay Hogue, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and dedication. Born on April 23, 1942, in Gilmer, Texas, Leah was the cherished daughter of James Washington Copeland and Dorothy Marie Jones.

After graduating from Mount Pleasant High School in 1960, Leah embarked on a fulfilling career with Dallas Power & Light, which later became TU Electric and Oncor. Her dedication and hard work led her to serve as an executive office manager, eventually moving to Austin to work alongside the CEO until her well-earned retirement. Leah was a woman of deep faith and service, a devoted member of First Baptist Church Arlington. She found great joy in Bible study, Sunday school, and ministering to homebound members, and she gave her time generously as a volunteer at Mission Arlington.

She shared a beautiful life with her late husband, William Donald Hogue, and together, they embraced their love of travel, embarking on road trips to visit every courthouse in Texas. Leah had a deep appreciation for her home state and especially loved her time living and working in Austin. After she retired, Leah and Don moved to Arlington to be closer to family.

She was an adoring mother to her son, Michael Gray, and his wife, Tara, as well as a loving stepmother to Nancy Wahlquist and Barb Maxwell and their children. Her heart swelled with pride for her grandchildren, Michael Copeland Gray and his wife Gabi, Megan Gray Wall and her husband Hunter, and Molly Katherine Gray and her fiancé Jack McCullough. She delighted in her great-grandsons, Copeland Andrew Gray and was looking forward to the arrival of Wyatt Tanner Gray. Leah was also a treasured sister to Connie Oakerson (Earl) and Scott Copeland (Donna). Her love extended to her nieces, nephews, and many cousins and their families, each of whom she held close to her heart.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, William D. Hogue; parents, James Washington Copeland and Dorothy Marie Copeland; and brother, Steve Copeland; as well as her beloved dachshund, Punkin. Leah’s warmth, kindness, and unwavering devotion to her family and faith will be deeply missed. Her memory will live on in the lives of those she touched.

A service to celebrate Leah’s life will be held on Tuesday, March 25th at 11:00 AM at First Baptist Church Arlington, with a reception to follow. A private family graveside service will take place at 2:30 PM at DFW National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to Mission Arlington, an organization close to Leah’s heart. Leah’s love and light will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her.