Robertson County Mayor Billy Vogle Dies at 71

Billy Vogle died Saturday morning, October 24, after a prolonged battle with cancer. He was 71.

Vogle spent the final four years of his career as Robertson County mayor. He held the office from September 2018 until his retirement in 2026. Before assuming the mayoral role, he served on the Robertson County Commission from 1998 to 2018. This timeline totals 28 years of continuous public service for the local government.

In August 2018, Vogle won the mayoral election and took over from longtime Mayor Howard Bradley. He secured a second term in 2022. Vogle announced in 2026 that he would not seek a third term. His time in office included work on the Budget, Education, Landfill, Law Enforcement, and Nominating committees while a commissioner.

Current Mayor Keith Hoover ordered flags on all county property to fly at half-staff. The one-week period of mourning begins Monday. Hoover spoke of a friendship that started in 2006 when he first joined the commission. He described Vogle as a source of wisdom and advice.

Hoover recalled a specific habit of Vogle during tense meetings. He noted that Vogle could sense rising tension in a room. He often diffused the situation with a joke or a practical solution. Hoover said Vogle had a way of making things better for everyone present.

A memory from Vogle’s illness stood out to Hoover. During Hoover’s recent campaign, he visited Vogle in his office. Vogle told Hoover, “I’m worried about you, Keith. I don’t want you to burn out.” Hoover said Vogle was fighting for his own life but remained concerned for his colleague. Hoover described himself as heartbroken by the passing.

State Sen. Kerry Roberts called Vogle a legend. Roberts noted that Vogle loved Jesus, his family, and the community. He offered condolences to Vogle’s wife, Cindy, and their family. Roberts sponsored Senate Joint Resolution 1102 in April 2026. The resolution recognized Vogle’s 28 years of public service. Governor Bill Lee signed the resolution into law on May 1, 2026.

Vogle was a 1973 graduate of Jo Byrns High School. He worked in business and agriculture. His employment history included the Adams/Cedar Hill Water Plant and 14 years at L&N/CSX Railroad. He served as president of Tobacco Pride Inc. from 1991 to 2000. He also owned a small business in Adams and worked in tobacco and cattle farming. He was a member of Adams United Methodist Church and served three terms as master of Red River Lodge No. 537. He is survived by his wife, Cindy, and their three children, Jill York, Will Vogle, and Matt Vogle.