James Wilbert Hoffler

James Wilbert Hoffler, formerly of Waterbury, CT, was under hospice care at Bon Secours Mary View Hospital and Northern Cardinal Rehabilitation in Chesapeake, VA. He passed away on October 28, 2025, just a few days before his family visited, prayed, cried, and cheered him on, and also shared precious memories.

James W. Hoffler celebrated his 80th birthday on July 20, 2025. He was born in Elizabeth City, NC, to hardworking parents, Wilbert and Eunice Hoffler. At age 11, James' parents migrated to Waterbury, CT, for a better life and employment in the brass mills, and later, he joined Zion Baptist Church and was active in the Baptist Training Union. While attending schools in Waterbury. James soon developed an interest in classic autos and automotive maintenance. After 27 years, James retired from United Technologies Pratt & Whitney, Southington, CT, in March of 2011. In October of 2019, James and his wife relocated to Chesapeake, VA.

James was a quiet person, and when he spoke, he spoke with authority; we listened. He was very protective of those around him and provided sound guidance. James and Meryl enjoyed traveling by car from CT to visit family in the Tidewater area. They also loved dining out, watching football and basketball games together.

James is survived by his wife of 55 years, Meryle Bond Hoffler; his loving sisters, Mable (Allen) Hoffler-Page, Hamden, CT, and Lula M. Hoffler, Waterbury, CT; and his aunt, Rosa Lee Spellman, Plainfield, NJ. Also, James is survived by adoring sisters-in- law, brothers-in-law, nephews, nieces, great-nephews, and great-nieces in Waterbury, CT; Chesapeake, VA; Virginia Beach, VA, and Atlanta, GA; and lots of cousins and friends. We will miss James' warm spirit, his telephone calls teasing us about the balmy weather, and just randomly checking in on us.

Until we meet again, James, may God keep you under His wings.

Special "thank you" to Pastor Horace A. Hough, First Baptist Church, Milford, CT, great-nephews, great-nieces, nephews and nieces, dear cousins, and friends for supporting and blessing us with your in-person and online presence, your music, your visits, your phone calls, your gifts, your cards, and more. Please continue to take good care of your Aunt Meryle.

Memorial Service: COME IN PERSON OR WATCH ONLINE Tuesday, November 4, 2025 11:00 AM Metropolitan Funeral Service 5605 Portsmouth Boulevard Portsmouth, VA