Willis Otto Hoffman

Willis O. Hoffman III, 73, of Jacksonville, NC.

It is with a heavy heart we announce the passing of Bill Hoffman due to a broken heart on February 11, 2026.

He was born on January 21, 1953 in Fort Atkinson, WI to Willis O. Hoffman II and Agnes C (Wallace) Hoffman.

Bill grew up loving the outdoors. He was a true outdoorsman who loved duck and pheasant hunting. He especially enjoyed fishing and duck hunting with Grandpa Hoffman on the Rock River.

Bill worked several jobs and then joined the US Navy looking for his calling. He joined the US Navy on October 14, 1980. Bill earned the rank of E6 First Class Navy Serviceman. He was also an Aviation Warfare Specialist. Bill retired October 31, 2000.

Bill met the love of his life while serving. Bill and Nora were married January 9, 1985. Bill became Stepdad to Phil (Bunky), Richie, and Micah Gandy whom he treated and loved as his own.

He is survived by his brother Jeff Hoffman (Shari Anderson) of Wild Rose, WI, sister Julie Hoffman of Janesville, WI, and brother James Hoffman. Bill is further survived by his brother-in-law, David Rickel, and numerous nieces, nephews, grand nieces and grand nephews as well as Nora's grandchildren and great grandchildren who fiercely loved their "Papaw Bill".

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Willis II and Agnes Hoffman, sister Janie Rickel, and brother James Hoffman, in addition to his loving wife, Nora Hoffman.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

He will be deeply missed and forever loved and remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Services and care entrusted to Wilmington Funeral & Cremation - Wilmington Chapel - 1535 S. 41st Street Wilmington, NC 28403 910.791.9099