Dennis Wayne Hirsch

November 16, 1944 - October 9, 2026

Dr. Dennis W. Hirsch, devoted husband, father, grandfather, educator, and public servant, died on October 9, 2026. Born on November 16, 1944, in Highland, Illinois, Dennis was raised in St. Jacob, Illinois, by his parents, Norman and Lenore Hirsch. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Paul and Dale.

Dennis's journey took him from Illinois to Memphis, Tennessee, where he attended college and competed in roller skating for Caroline Mirelli. Through skating, he met Margaret, whom he married on May 26, 1967. They shared 59 years of marriage and had one daughter, Erin. Dennis earned bachelor's and master's degrees from Memphis State University and a doctorate from Vanderbilt University.

Dennis spent much of his career in educational leadership in Tennessee, retiring as Associate Superintendent of Business Operations for the Memphis City School System. After moving to Maryland to be closer to his daughter and her family, he served as Director of Budget and Finance for Anne Arundel County and Director of Payroll and Benefits Services for Prince George's County. He also taught at the University of Phoenix and worked as an educational consultant for Chevron Energy Services and Southern Educational Services.

Beyond his professional life, Dennis believed in the importance of community, fellowship, and giving back. He was a member of the Tennessee Rotary Club, Toastmasters, and Epsilon Pi Tau Fraternity. Dennis also served as President of the Maples Townhouse Association in Hendersonville, Tennessee. He was a member of Westminster Presbyterian Church in Alexandria, Virginia.

His greatest joy was his family: his wife, Margaret; daughter, Erin Roccapriore; son-in-law, Mark; and granddaughters Isabel "Izzy" Josendale, Vivian "Viv" Josendale, and Finlee "Fin" Josendale. Each held a special place in his heart, and his love will remain with them always.

Dennis will be remembered with deep love, profound respect, and enduring gratitude. His life was one of purpose and accomplishment, but more importantly, it was a life shared with those who mattered most. The lessons he taught, the love he gave, and the legacy he leaves behind will continue to live on for generations to come.

A celebration of Dennis's life will be held in Maryland on March 6, 2027. Location and time to be announced.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee:
https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html