Skook News Obituaries: January 27th, 2026
Obituaries published from the Schuylkill County area.
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She was born and raised in St. Clair, a community she remained deeply connected to throughout her life.
Jean was a longtime member of the Foursquare Gospel Church in Muir, PA, where her faith was an important part of her life for many years. She was a graduate of St. Clair High School. Jean was employed as a teacher's aide at Schuylkill IU.
In addition to her parents, Jean was preceded in death by her husband, Robert J. Hoffman, who passed away in 1994. She was the youngest of six children and is also preceded in death by her siblings, Anna Krotchko, George Elo, John Elo, Helen Doyle, and Mary Ann Elo, as well as many dear friends.
Jean is survived by her devoted daughters, Eileen Hoffman of Frackville and Diane (Hoffman) McDonnell, wife of Mark, of Williston, Vermont; her only cherished grandson, Ryan McDonnell of Santa Rosa, California, who brought her immense pride and joy. She is also survived by Maureen (Gorman) Schoener, who was like a daughter to her, along with many loving nieces and nephews.
Jean had a curious and determined spirit. She loved working on crossword puzzles and cryptograms, tending to her garden, and spending time outdoors—especially on bright, sunny days. She found simple happiness sitting on her front porch on summer afternoons, chatting with neighbors and watching the world go by. Never one to shy away from a challenge, Jean never met a household repair she was afraid to tackle, always doing her best even when she had no idea how to do it. Her independence, resilience, and quiet strength were admired by all who knew her.
Above all else, Jean loved her family. Her warmth, determination, and genuine care for others will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
A Religious Service will be held on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at the James H. Evans Funeral Home, Inc., St. Clair, at 11 a.m., with Rev. Robert Schaeffer officiating. Relatives and friends are invited to call from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the funeral home Tuesday morning. Interment will be held in the Odd Fellows Cemetery, St. Clair. James H. Evans Funeral Home, Inc., St. Clair, is entrusted with arrangements.
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John was born in Pottsville on October 3, 1954.
Together 29 years, John shared 10 years of marriage with his wife, Opal G. (Sprouse) Duffy.
He proudly served in the U.S. Marines.
John was formerly employed by the former Alcoa Aluminum, and Dunkin’ Donuts.
He was a member of North Ward Social Club, Schuylkill Haven.
In addition to his wife, John is also survived by three children: John Duffy, Jr. (Christine), Crissey Nun (Eric), & Tammy Sharp (Jeremy), three step-children: Jason Ryan Jones, Kimberly A. Jones, & Richie Jones, Jr. (Christine), grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and four siblings: Patricia, Bonnie, Jody, & Leo.
Private services will be held at the family’s convenience.
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These obituaries are being brought to by Mark J. Hummel Funeral Home, Frackville
