Jane Irene (Hays) Hoffman

Jane Irene Hoffman, a beacon of unwavering faith and boundless love, passed away peacefully on March 28, 2025, in Munster, Indiana.

Born on August 21, 1943, in Murdock, Illinois, to Voyles Coburn Hays and Nittie Irene (Derby). Jane's journey through life was marked by devotion to her family, her church, and her community.

Jane's early life in Murdock laid the foundation for a life of service and kindness. She met the love of her life, Pastor Robert Dean Hoffman, and they were united in holy matrimony on October 30, 1960. Together, they embarked on a spiritual journey, with Jane as the faithful pastor's wife for 43 remarkable years until his passing on July 3, 2013. Their love and partnership were a testament to their shared commitment to faith and family.

Blessed with a loving family, Jane's legacy continues through her children, Deanette (Dawn II) Benton of Twenty-Nine Palms, California, and Pastor Richard (Tara) Hoffman of La Porte, Indiana. She was a cherished grandmother to Casey and Matthew Thompson, and Reverend Coburn (Jenna) Hoffman, as well as Cherith (Reverend Benjamin) Brown. The joy of her life was further multiplied by the arrival of her great-grandchild, Rilliam Brown. Jane also leaves behind her sister, Joan (Ronald deceased) Sanders of Louisville, Kentucky. She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, husband, and siblings, Dwayne Hays, Reverend James (Carol deceased, Joyce deceased) Hays, and Reverend Robert (Dona) Hays.

Jane's professional life was marked by her long-standing role as a secretary at the University of Illinois, where she served with distinction for over 25 years. Her dedication to her work was paralleled by her commitment to her spiritual home, where she served as a church secretary with First Pentecostal Church in La Porte for 15 years. Her work was not just a job but a calling, where she supported the ministry and touched the lives of many.

Known affectionately as "Granny" by those who loved her, Jane's presence was a source of warmth and comfort. She lived by the motto "Stay Sweet," a phrase that reflected her own nature. Jane stood faithfully by her husband's side, supporting his pastoral duties with grace and resilience. Her kindness, love, and unwavering faith were the hallmarks of her character.

Jane's interests were deeply intertwined with her role in the church. Her life was a living example of the words that best describe her: loving, kind, and faith-filled. She was a pillar of strength for her family and community, always ready with a kind word, a supportive gesture, and a steadfast belief in the goodness of others.

2 Timothy 4:7-8, 7 I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: 8 Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.

Visitation will be held from 5PM to 6:30 PM Wednesday, April 2, 2025, at the First Pentecostal Church, 1930 Boyd Blvd., La Porte, Indiana.

A funeral service will follow the visitation in the church at 6:30PM with Pastor Richard Hoffman, Reverend Coburn Hoffman, Reverend Benjamin Brown, and Reverend Craig Fritchley officiating.

Private family burial will take place on Thursday at Rolling Prairie Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the First Pentecostal Church in La Porte.

To light a virtual candle, share a story of Jane’s life or leave a message of comfort for her family, please visit esslingfuneralhome.com.

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