Birgit Hoche Conlen

Birgit Hoche Conlen, a devoted animal lover and passionate advocate for equine welfare, passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 7, 2026, in Leicester, North Carolina. Born on January 1, 1957, in Hamburg, Germany, Birgit’s life was marked by a profound connection to animals, particularly horses, whose care and rescue she championed tirelessly.

Birgit’s unwavering dedication to equine welfare was most notably demonstrated through her many years of service as Vice-President of South Carolina Awareness and Rescue for Equines Inc. (SCARE). In this role, she tirelessly worked to rescue countless horses, lending her heart and efforts to a cause that defined much of her life. Her passion for these animals was recognized and admired by all who knew her.

On a personal level, Birgit found immense joy and fulfillment in her family. She was the loving wife of Kevin Conlen, to whom she was married for 25 years since February 4, 2001. Together, they built a life grounded in love and mutual support. Birgit was also a devoted mother to her children, Daniel Jordan and Rebecca Jordan, and a proud grandmother to Tamo and Levi. Her joy extended further to her great-grandson, Tyler, who brought light into her later years.

Birgit is also survived by her brother, Jorg Hoche, and her sister, Nicole Hoche, as well as several nieces and nephews who remember her kindness and devotion. She was preceded in death by her parents, Siegfried Hoche and Annemarie Nielsen Hoche.

Her final farewell will be held at a graveside service on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Turkey Creek Baptist Church Cemetery, located at 2206 Bear Creek Road in Leicester, NC. This service will offer an opportunity for family, friends, and all who were touched by Birgit’s life to come together to honor her memory.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in her memory to South Carolina Awareness and Rescue for Equines Inc. (SCARE), 312 Shetland Lane, Lexington, SC 29073.

Birgit Hoche Conlen’s legacy is one of compassion, commitment, and love—both for her family and the many horses whose lives she helped save. Her spirit will continue to inspire those who knew her and those who carry forward her mission of care and rescue. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.

Anders Rice & Roper Funeral Home and Cremation Center is honored to serve Birgit's family.