Sarah D. Fogle, 81, passed away peacefully on May 22, 2026, in her Ormond Beach home surrounded by people who love her and mementos of a fulfilling life.

Sarah was born on March 26, 1945, in Lexington, Kentucky. From her father, Wilbur, she learned to fish and be funny. Her mother, Andre, instilled perseverance and sparked her life-long passion for teaching.

As a professor in the Humanities and Communication Department at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Sarah built an impressive career, despite being one of few women in a male-dominated environment. Her professional savvy, leadership skills, and knack for innovation helped shape the institution and resulted in her serving in several dean positions, including Dean of Academics. Most of all, Sarah was a guiding force for her students, especially in her speech classes, and for junior faculty. After more than 45 years at ERAU, Sarah officially retired (“went to the porch”) in 2020 as Professor Emeritus having impacted generations of Eagles.

Sarah had many pleasures. More than a mere resident of Florida, she embraced local culture—from tropical shirts to Florida crime writers and, especially, with her extensive and quirky collection of Florida-themed décor and art. She was a fan of tennis and football (“Go Gators!”) and relished reading, especially mysteries (which resulted in her editing two collections—one about Martha Grimes and another about Minette Walters). She worked jigsaw puzzles and nuzzled cats. A pro in the kitchen, she threw fabulous parties. With friends, she travelled and had adventures. She loved driving with the top down. Perhaps her greatest pleasure in life was socializing (talking politics and telling stories decorated with southern sayings) over Chardonnay with her diverse groups of friends, which over the years included ERAU colleagues, the Junior League (including a close-knit group who met frequently in North Carolina), her poker group, and her book club.

In addition to her parents, Sarah is preceded in death by her sister, Mary Snyder, and survived by her nephew, Bobby Newland of Greenup, Kentucky; her beloved godson, Andrew Rollins, and his wife, Jeanette, of Tampa, Florida; and various villages of friends. We can all look to Ilan Shamir’s “Advice from an Alligator” to convey how she lived: “Take a bite out of life. Bask in the sun. Have a healthy appetite. Keep an eye on opportunities. Be thick-skinned. Don’t be afraid to open your mouth.” And we know Sarah is hearing ocean waves churning and cats purring, feeling wind in her hair, and finding new stories to tell.

In memory of Sarah, share a good meal with loved ones and raise a glass to her. A Celebration of Life will take place in Sarah’s home on June 17th at 5:00 PM (program starting at 6:00). For more information, email CelebrateSarahFogle@gmail.com.