Heather Lee Hope

Heather Lee Hope, age 49, of McDonald, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 24, 2026. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Faye Hope, and her brother, Eric Hope. She is survived by her sister, Christi Madison (Tom) of Signal Mountain, Tennessee; brother, Lee Hope (April) of St. Charles, Illinois; nephews, Jordan Madison and Hunter Hope; niece, Hannah Hope; as well as other beloved family members and many dear friends.

A 1995 graduate of Bradley-Central High School, "Hope," as she was lovingly known, went on to serve in the United States Air Force as a Supply Management Systems Analyst before being honorably discharged. Following her military service, she attended Pensacola State College and the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga.

Hope lived her life fearlessly, embracing adventure and creativity at every turn. Whether surfing, rock climbing, or creating her latest artistic masterpiece, she approached life with curiosity, courage, and a spirit all her own.

She had a deep love for creatures, great and small, and spent time volunteering at no-kill animal and wildlife shelters throughout the Chattanooga area. Her beloved dog, Ferguson, a.k.a. Fergie, was by her side for countless adventures and was a cherished part of her life.

In celebration of Hope's life, her artwork will be on display at the Hart Gallery, 110 E. Main St., Chattanooga, Tennessee 37408, on Friday, September 4, from 6 to 8 p.m. 

Family, friends, and members of the community are also invited to honor Hope by participating in a collaborative chalk drawing in her memory on Sunday, September 6, at 1 p.m. in Chalk Alley at Coolidge Park, 38 Frazier Ave., Chattanooga, Tennessee 37405.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hart Gallery in Hope's memory.

You are invited to share a personal memory of Heather or your condolences with her family at her online memorial located at www.companionfunerals.com. Companion Funeral Home of Cleveland and the Cody family are honored to assist the family with these arrangements.