Sylvia Mary Hogan passed away peacefully on the evening of August 7, 2022, at Broad Reach Liberty Commons in Chatham, MA. She was 80 years old.

Sylvia was born in Warrington, England to Susanna and Reginald Cahill. Her father would fondly refer to her as “Queen.”

Sylvia was a courageous dreamer and a rebel, always following her heart and forging her own path. At only nineteen, Sylvia left behind her home and family in England to pursue her dream of living in the United States of America. A few years later she became a U.S. citizen. She never lost her love of this country, always proud to fly her American flag and the Fourth of July was her favorite holiday.

Nevertheless, Sylvia never quite lost her British accent and would charm others around her with her endearment of calling people “love.” She also believed that a good, strong cup of tea would cure all ills. Sylvia loved to read about British royalty and was a huge fan of Downton Abbey.

Sylvia was a born actress. She took her love of the dramatic as well as her gift of storytelling to begin a successful career as a tour guide and operator. She loved to direct and mother her passengers on trips all over the country and other parts of the world. Eventually Sylvia opened her own business, Swans of New England Tours. She chose the swan as her symbol because one never knew how much work went on below the surface and all you would see is grace.

However, Sylvia would say that her greatest achievement in her life was giving birth to and raising her two beloved daughters: Susan and Joanie.

Sylvia’s “signature color” was pink. In fact, the staff at Broad Reach in Chatham where she spent her last days nicknamed her “Pinkie.” She also loved roses. Sylvia was a faithful Catholic and a member of Our Lady of the Cape Church for many years. Saying the rosary often gave her comfort. Her favorite saint was St. Therese of Lisieux – the “little flower” of Jesus.

Sylvia is survived by her two daughters, Susan Hogan and Joanie Hogan; her sister, Valerie Muir; and her former husband, Ken Hogan. She also leaves behind many cherished nieces, nephews, and friends. To all who knew, loved, and cared for Sylvia during her life, thank you for being a part of her journey.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, August 17, 2022, from 4-6 PM at Hallett Funeral Home 273 Station Ave, South Yarmouth, MA. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, August 18 at 11 AM at our Lady of the Cape Church, 468 Stony Brook Rd, Brewster. Interment will be private.

Flowers are welcome, but donations can also be made to the Society of the Little Flower (https://www.littleflower.org/).

My dear Sylvia. We met the day you started and was given across from mine and I was tasked to teach you to use a computer. We had so many laughs but the one that comes to me when you asked me how do I turn this blessed thing! We laughed so much over the years and we never stopped talking and we talked usually every Holiday season. I was so very lucky to have you come to Vermont and escort some of my tours. I will miss you my dear friend. You often spoke about your daughters and you could see you light up while doing so. Joanie and Susie, though we never met I want you to know mom loved you both so much. I’ll miss our updates on what’s happening on the Cape and of course that great sense of humor.

Sending love to Susie and Joanie. Sylvia was such a lovely woman, and a dedicated loving mother to her girls. She has always held a special place in my daughter's heart, who spent many hours with Sylvia and her family during her teenage years. Prayers and Godspeed, Sylvia.

Sylvia, My friend, you have always been a joy and shining light wherever you go. Keep shining from Heaven and know that you were so greatly loved. I will miss my tour director friend and all the fun we had together in our ITMI training. Love you forever, Ethel.

So sorry to hear of Sylvia’s passing. The last time I brought a group to Cape Cod she was too frail to take it out but met us for dinner twice. I’ll never forget her she was a lovely person who shared her grace and laughter with all. We got stuck in one of the Pilgrim cemeteries, it was a hilarious experience that had it not been Sylvia could have been a disaster. I still have a smile on my face each time it comes to mind. Praying for her family’s peace and comfort.

It is with such sadness to hear of Silvia,s passing. I remember fondly the fun we had working together. She was so gracious. Rest In Peace.

Dear Sylvia Our Washashore began as neighbors then unfolding to share till the end. I’ll miss you so. God bless you and your dear family. May your memory be eternal. Love always Ann

Sending my deepest condolences to Susan, Joan, Valerie, Ken and all of Sylvia’s loved ones. My belief is that we are all eventually reunited with those whom have passed before us. Love is forever.. and forever never ends!

So sad to hear this news. Sylvia brought a smile to everyone’s face. Such a classy, amazing lovely lady

My dearest Sylvia, I was unaware of your health situation, it’s no wonder I have missed you coming to Provincetown and stopping by the shop for our visits. I am heart token with your passing. You have left us an example of your beautiful soul here on earth. Your kindness and grace, coupled with your sparkle of Shennanigan’s ☘️. I know that you passed right through the golden gates as one of God’s favorite Angels. I will never forget our first meeting 44 years ago when you became our neighbor, then onto a treasured friendship that blossomed which I cherished. A joy to behold indeed. Suzie and Joanie were blessed to have you as their Mom. They adopted much of your character in the goodness they share. My heart goes to them, your darling Sister Val, and Ken. I will forever miss you Sly, and hold your dearly close. Til we meet again, Gin

Nothing but great memories Aunt Syl! Love you

Although I never had the privilege of meeting Sylvia I am quite sure she was a wonderful person due to knowing her daughter Susan and seeing the commitment to Mom and the dedication to keep her happy, healthy and loved! In Peaceful Pink Sylvia!

Sylvia was a wonderful mentor for me as I started my career as a tour director. She was so kind and helpful. She had a beautiful presence. I will never forget her.

Dear Syl. I love you and will miss you and our lunch outings and our cups of teas. Thank you for putting up with me as Teenager. You will always be in my heart. You were more like a sister to me than a sister in law. I hope you are singing and dancing with Jesus. Love you.

My dear sweet friend and British "sis" there are far too many wonderful memories to share in this little space. I will cherish the memories of our LaSalette retreats, and the laughter we shared. Fly with the angels my friend.

Sylvia and I met back in the 60s when we were nannies in New York. Several years ago three of us, Anne Spencer, Sheena Vermandois and I, traveled to the Cape to spend a few days with her. Prayers to her family. She was special. Love and prayers Virginia Macfarlan

Syl was a dear friend to me for years. We met as tour guides . One of the most memorable tours was when I took her on my tour of the Canadian Maritimes to see if she wanted to include it on Swans of New England. We shared many cups of tea. I loved her like a sister. Until we meet again, I love you

My dearest Syl , Gone but never forgotten and thankyou for the wonderful memories we shared for 84 years. With love Denise.x RIP dear girl.