Laura Jeanne Hoffman

March 8, 1948 – May 6, 2026

Laura Jeanne Hoffman, 78, of Folsom, California, passed away on May 6, 2026.

Born in Ann Arbor, Michigan, on March 8, 1948, to Dr. Clarence and Thelma Chrest, Laura grew up in Kalamazoo. She graduated from Loy Norrix High School in 1966 and went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Education from Michigan State University in 1970, followed by her teaching credential from Eastern Michigan University. She enjoyed a dedicated career as an elementary school teacher.

Laura especially loved sailing the waters of Michigan on Gull Lake and around Grosse Ile. She worked tirelessly to raise her daughter, Andrea, and her three stepchildren, Kim, Kristin, and Brad. In 1988, she moved from Grosse Ile, Michigan, to Salinas, California. Over the years she lived in many California communities including Spreckels, Shaver Lake, and Oakdale before settling in Sacramento County for the last decade of her life.

A talented seamstress, Laura’s creative passion found its fullest expression in quilting. She poured her heart into intricate, beautiful quilts that became treasured gifts for the family she loved so deeply. Music was another lifelong joy; she sang in choirs from her school days onward and lent her voice to the choir at Northminster Presbyterian Church in Salinas. An avid traveler, Laura explored much of North America and Europe, and she especially cherished a memorable tour of China with Andrea in 2008.

Laura is survived by her daughter, Andrea Means, and son-in-law, Forrest Means; her beloved grandchildren, Everett and Eleanor; her sisters, Dianne Elizabeth Osis and Janet Pennell; her brother Charles “Chuck” Chrest, and many dear nieces and nephews.

A celebration of her life will be held this summer. Details will be shared with loved ones at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services or the Boys & Girls Clubs of America in Laura’s memory.