Colleen Rae Hagerty of Cloverdale, Oregon, passed away peacefully on May 27, 2026, surrounded by her loving children.
Born in Tillamook, Oregon, on September 30, 1944, to Wilma Dunn Hagerty and John “Jack” Hagerty, Colleen lived a life defined by love, generosity, faith, and service to others. She possessed a rare gift for making people feel seen, valued, and cared for, and she never hesitated to help someone in need.
Colleen was preceded in death by her son, Brian Fitch; her parents, Wilma and Jack Hagerty; and her brother, Bruce Hagerty.
She is survived by her brother, William “Bill” Hagerty, and her children: Mark Fitch and his wife, Jennifer; Michelle Hamilton and her longtime partner Stephen Kapture; and John “Wally” Fitch and his wife, Jacquie. She is also survived by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought immense joy and pride to her life: Myranda (Hamilton) and her husband, J.D. Baker and their children, Rylee and Jett; Cooper Fitch and his partner, Violet Bryant; Nicole Hamilton and her fiancé, Mark Nance; Bailey (Hamilton) and her husband, Doug Girard; Kaelyn Fitch and Jackson Fitch; Rachelle Hancock and her son, Flint; Michael Corey and his wife, Erin and their children, Olivia, Dexter, and Sawyer.
A lifelong South County native, Colleen grew up on a dairy farm in Cloverdale and attended local schools, forming friendships that lasted throughout her life. Although she spent many years traveling the world as a Navy spouse and raising her family in places such as California, Florida, and Guam, Oregon always remained home in her heart.
Family was the center of Colleen’s world. Among her treasured belongings was a handwritten list titled “My Wonderful Family”, which proudly named her four children, eight grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. Nothing brought her greater happiness than watching her family grow and thrive. Whether it was a school event, sporting competition, concert, or community gathering, Colleen was there cheering from the stands, watching from home, or proudly telling others about the accomplishments of those she loved.
Many evenings found her at a gymnasium, stadium, or athletic field, supporting not only her own family but also the children of friends and neighbors. She became a familiar and beloved presence at Nestucca football and basketball games, and when she could not attend an event in person, she followed every game she could on television.
Colleen’s impact extended far beyond her family. Through her work at Tillamook High School, she touched countless young lives. One of her greatest joys was encountering former students who would stop to tell her how much she had influenced them and how her encouragement helped shape the people they became. These moments affirmed what so many already knew—that Colleen had a remarkable ability to lift others up and leave a lasting impression on everyone she met.
Her faith was equally important to her. Colleen was deeply involved in Nestucca Valley Presbyterian Church, where she faithfully served in countless ways behind the scenes to ensure that services, ministries, and fellowship opportunities ran smoothly. She especially cherished Bible studies, worship, and the friendships she found within her church family. Even after suffering injuries that limited her ability to participate physically, she remained devoted to the church’s mission and ministries, continuing to guide and encourage her family in supporting the congregation she loved.
To say Colleen will be missed is an understatement. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, generosity, faith, and unwavering devotion to family and community. Her influence can be seen in the lives she touched, the relationships she nurtured, and the example she set for all who knew her.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made in Colleen’s name to the Nestucca Valley Presbyterian Church Backpack Program.
Celebration of Life: Saturday, June 20th 2026 – 11:00 AM – Nestucca Valley K-8 School – 36925 U.S. 101 S, Cloverdale, OR 97112
Reception to Follow Please bring a Potluck side dish
