The Atlanta community is mourning the loss of Valerie Hoff DeCarlo, a respected journalist, devoted wife, and loving mother, who passed away following a courageous battle with cancer. Her husband, Derrick DeCarlo, shared the heartbreaking news, noting the strength and determination she showed throughout her illness. “The last year had been brutal on her but she didn’t give up,” he wrote. “She will be missed by so many. Know that she is in a better place.”
Valerie Hoff DeCarlo was known not only for her distinguished journalism career, but also for the depth of character, intellect, and compassion she brought to every aspect of her life. Her passing has prompted tributes from colleagues, friends, and community members who admired her both personally and professionally.
Longtime Atlanta journalist Jeff Hullinger reflected on her legacy, remembering her as a gifted and dedicated professional. Hullinger, who worked with Valerie at WXIA, noted that she also spent many years at CNN, carving out a respected place in the world of broadcast journalism. “While I didn’t know her well, three elements stood out,” he said. “Her intellect—she attended Emory Law School and had Wall Street investment acumen—her daily enterprise reporting, and her family life.”
Valerie’s commitment to journalism was evident throughout her career. Known for her tenacity, curiosity, and thoughtful storytelling, she brought energy and insight to every assignment. Colleagues remember her as a reporter who never shied away from hard work and whose professionalism elevated every newsroom she entered.
Outside of her career, Valerie was a devoted wife and mother. She and Derrick raised two sons, whom Hullinger described as “successful young men,” one attending the University of Georgia and the other the University of West Georgia. Their family story also included a deeply meaningful chapter: the adoption of their son from a Russian orphanage. Hullinger described the process as “arduous and heroic,” and watching their son grow into adulthood, he said, had been “stirring, inspiring.”
Those who knew Valerie say her greatest legacy lives within her family, her resilience, and the many lives she touched. Though her life ended far too soon, she leaves behind a lasting impact—through her journalism, her courage during her illness, and the love she poured into her family and community.
As condolences continue to pour in, friends and colleagues remember Valerie Hoff DeCarlo not only for her many accomplishments, but for her heart, her strength, and the example she set. Atlanta has lost a remarkable woman, but her influence will continue to be felt for years to come.