Bruce Martin Hoff

Bruce Martin Hoff, a beloved teacher, adventurer, and devoted father and grandfather, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 25, 2025, surrounded by his family. Though he lived with dementia in his later years, he faced it not as a battle, but with the same gentle spirit that defined his life—always ready with a smile, kind words, and unconditional love to share.

Born in Coral Gables, Florida, on October 7, 1946, to Mary and Herman Hoff, Bruce moved to Atlanta in 1970 after graduating from the University of Miami. Atlanta would become the setting for his lifelong calling: teaching at Marist High School.

For over four decades until his retirement in 2011, Bruce was a foundational figure at Marist. While earning his Master of Divinity from Emory University, he dedicated his life to teaching religion, guiding generations of students with his curiosity and infectious enthusiasm. His most celebrated course, Biblical Archeology, was born from his own "Indiana Jones"-style expedition to Israel in the summer of 1978, where he documented sites like Masada and Qumran, bringing the ancient world vividly to life for his students. He also served the Marist community as the yearbook editor, JV volleyball coach, and founder of the Marist Hiking Club, frequently leading mock archaeological digs along the banks of Nancy Creek.

A lifelong Methodist, Bruce was an active and cherished member of St. James United Methodist Church alongside his family, and he continued to share his knowledge as a frequent guest lecturer at both St. James and Emory well into his retirement.

Bruce’s greatest joy was his family. He married Linda Bel Guinn and in 1971, welcomed his first son, David Hoff. He was later blessed with a second son, Christopher Hoff (deceased 2012). After divorcing, he married Linda Stephens in 1993, embracing her two grown sons, Brian and Darryl. Bruce cherished his role as a grandfather to six grandchildren, including Lyric and Quinn, who proudly carry on his Marist legacy today. After his wife Linda's passing in 2017, Bruce continued to delight in travel, spending time with his family, and indulging his passion for aviation by "flying" around the world on his PC flight simulator.

Bruce is survived by his son David Hoff and daughter-in-law Trish Cotter; step-sons Brian and Darryl; sister Sandra; and six grandchildren, Lyric, Quinn, Izzy, Josie, Zeke, and Cecily.