Harold Brian Hoch

Harold Brian Hoch
June 18, 1941 – April 18, 2025

Harold Brian Hoch, known lovingly as Brian, passed away peacefully on April 18, 2025, at the age of 83 in North Myrtle Beach, SC.

Born on June 18, 1941, in Palmyra, NJ, to Harold and Emma Hoch, Brian lived a life rooted in faith, service, and deep love for his family and community. He spent much of his life in Whippany, NJ, and later in North Myrtle Beach, SC.

Brian, a proud veteran of the United States Army and a man of faith, was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Whippany, NJ. More recently, his spiritual life flourished at Little River United Methodist Church, where for the past 19 years he took on various leadership roles and committees. Additionally, Brian served as an assistant table leader for the Seaside Walk to Emmaus and member of the Little River Lions Club. His joyful spirit, deep faith, and willingness to serve created a lasting impact on the lives he touched.

Brian is survived by his beloved wife, Elaine; his sons, Darren (Aleta) and Kevin (Emily); and five grandchildren—Paul, Scott, Fletcher, Arden, and Griffin—to whom he was a devoted and joyful grandfather. Known for his warm smile, gentle spirit, and witty sense of humor, Brian marked special moments with his grandchildren by gifting them newly minted coins.

Brian had an appreciation for life’s simple pleasures. He was a collector of Lionel trains and quick-witted t-shirts. He especially enjoyed visits to wineries and savoring a good glass of wine. Brian also loved spending time with his cats—Buddy, Smokey, Gracie, and Daisy—who brought him great joy and companionship.

To know Brian was to know love. His patience, kindness, gentleness, and joy radiated through every interaction. Whether it was a warm embrace, a fist bump, or a quick joke to lighten the mood, Brian showed up—with love, time, and unwavering support.

A memorial service to celebrate Brian’s life will be held at Little River United Methodist Church Life Center on May 31st at 11:00am. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to North Strand Community Home P.O. Box 529 N. Myrtle Beach, SC 29597, reflecting Brian’s lifelong commitment to faith and service.

Brian’s legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the family he cherished, and the love he gave so freely. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

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