Jeffrey Paul Hockenbery

Jeffrey Paul Hockenbery, 65, of West Jefferson, Ohio, passed away on July 30, 2025. 

A lifelong member of the West Jefferson community, Jeff devoted his life to service, music, and connection.

He proudly served with the Jefferson Township Fire Department from 1978 until his retirement in 2008. From 1985 to 1991, he held the title of Chief and retired with honor as a Lieutenant. His dedication extended beyond the firehouse and onto the football field, where he coached middle and high school athletes for the Roughriders. He also spent many Friday nights working the chain crew with his nephew Scott - moments Jeff truly cherished.

Jeff had a deep love for music; he was a fixture in local bands, The Posse and The Southern Rock Band, and could often be found onstage playing bass or singing along to "Sweet Home Alabama". A diehard Notre Dame football fan and devoted NASCAR enthusiast, Jeff lived life full-throttle. Above all else, his greatest passion was people. He fiercely loved his family and friends and made time for everyone he cared about.

He is survived by his daughters Samantha (Ashley), Courtney, and Kelsey Hockenbery, sister Janet Mast, granddaughter Harper Wallace, nieces Lori Denes, Julie Treliving, and Kim Ellison, nephews Brian Mast and Scott Hockenbery, lifelong best friends Scott Skeldon & Dennis Gray, and a wide circle of cousins and friends who all felt the depth of his love and loyalty.

Jeff was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Donna Jane Hockenbery, brother Mike Hockenbery, brother in law John Mast, and fellow firefighter and friend Jeff Routte.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, August 9, from 12pm to 4pm at RADER-McDONALD-TIDD FUNERAL HOME, 1355 W. Main Street, West Jefferson, Ohio, 43162, with a Memorial Service immediately following at 4pm.

Jeff's legacy of loyalty, laughter, and loud music lives on in the hearts of all who knew him.