Colonel Richard Gurney Hoffman

7/11/1927 – 09/11/2022

Col. Richard G. “Dick” Hoffman, U.S. Army (Ret.), USMA 1950, passed away on Sunday, September 11, 2022. He was born into a military family on July 11, 1927, at West Point, NY. Dick’s love of horses and military life were nurtured as his family moved from one cavalry post to another.

Dick graduated from Austin High School in El Paso, Texas at the early age of 15 years old. His dream had always been to attend West Point. However, the minimum age for admission was 18. Dick entered Texas A&M and the ROTC program for the interim three years. At 18 he was accepted to West Point and joined the Class of 1950 where he ranked in the top 5% of his class, distinguishing himself as a “Star” man.

Dick’s military career included assignments in many places around the world such as Germany, Korea, Vietnam, the Pentagon and NATO. During his career his academic success included earning his master’s degree in Physics from Columbia University, NY. With that achievement he was selected to teach Chemistry at the United States Military Academy.

Dick retired with distinction from the Army in 1974 after a very successful career. He and his wife, Helen Hoffman, settled in Jacksonville, Florida to be near their children and grandchildren. Retirement allowed Dick to pursue his love of golf and to help Helen build upon her flourishing success as an artist. Dick’s support of Helen’s art profession created a unique partnership that enriched their lives.

Dick is survived by his son and daughters and their spouses: Katherine and Terry Thomason, Richard and Faith Hoffman, and Cynthia and Alex McLean; his grandchildren: Paige Heninger, Christine Hoffman, Rebecca Mench, Linda McCauley, and Colin Hill; his 10 great-grandchildren; and his 2 great-great grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Richard's memory may be made to a charity of your choice.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.hardage-giddensbeacheschapel.com for the Hoffman family.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of HARDAGE-GIDDENS FUNERAL HOME In Jacksonville Beach FL.