Mary Joan Hofmann, 84, a devoted wife, adored mother and grandmother, and cherished friend to many, passed away peacefully on December 27, 2025, in Wilton, Connecticut.     

Joan, as she was affectionately known, was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She was the daughter of Mary and Charles Joseph McGonigal and was raised in a close-knit family alongside her siblings, Charles Joseph Jr. (“Bud”) and Susan.

Joan graduated from Chestnut Hill College with a degree in English and began her career as a high school English teacher. Shortly thereafter, she married the love of her life and high school sweetheart, Richard Hofmann. Together, they shared 62 blissful years together, taking great joy in their five beautiful children – Rick, Beth, Tricia, John, and Chris – and nine grandchildren – John, Will, Matthew, Andrew, Cooper, Emerson, Kezia, Alexandra, and Isabelle. She is also survived by her daughters-in-law Stephanie, Elizabeth, and Annalise, and her son-in-law Adam.

A longtime resident of New Canaan, Connecticut for more than 30 years, Joan was deeply involved in the schools and community, serving actively in the PTA and dedicating countless hours to supporting local initiatives. Above all, she was a devoted parent who never missed her children’s sporting events or concerts.

She always looked forward to spending summers on Nantucket and delighted in a full houseful of family spending quality time together. The beach was her happy place, and the spirited discussions at the dinner table always made her smile. She loved to travel, and her and Rich’s trips to many fascinating places filled their lives with many wonderful friends and memories.

Joan will be remembered for her kindness, warmth, resilience, and ever-present smile. She always saw the best in people. Her thoughtful advice, deep sense of compassion, and legendary handwritten thank-you notes were a profound reflection of the care she extended to everyone in her life.A celebration of

Joan’s life will take place at the Roger Sherman Inn in New Canaan on April 17, 2026. Details to follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Joan’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Association.

The Family is being compassionately cared for by the staff at Hoyt Funeral Home, 199 Main Street, New Canaan CT 06840.

For online condolences please visit www.hoytfuneralhome.com