Elsa Mae (Kretsinger) Hoffman

Elsa Mae (Kretsinger) Hoffman, 102, transitioned September 16, 2023 peacefully asleep, at her home in Smithsburg.

Born December 19, 1920 in Greensburg, MD, she was the daughter of the late Frank Newcomer Kretsinger and Iva Mae (McKinsey) Kretsinger.

She is survived by her twin sons, Gary M. Hoffman and Larry P. Hoffman of Smithsburg; Sister, Helen Semler of Smithsburg, and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 51 years, Lawrence W. Hoffman, and her siblings, Grace Graybill, Catherine Kretsinger, Margaret Sheiss, Albert Kretsinger, Robert Kretsinger and Rose Good.

Graduating from Smithsburg High School, class of 1938, she began working at Fairchild Aircraft shortly after, and in later years was employed at Doubleday Publishing until her retirement.

Elsa had a wonderful sense of humor, loved to sing and dance, swim and float in the ocean, and to watch the horses race that her husband trained, many of whom she had named.

Elsa did not like the color purple and its various shades, eating fin fish, and her fear of snakes was perhaps legendary.

Having lived so long, Elsa's physical body presented many challenges in later years, but her family and those who knew her marveled at her clarity of mind until her passing.

A lifetime member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Greensburg, MD., she enjoyed singing on the choir for many years.

The family wishes to extend special gratitude to caregiver Corean Freeman, the staff at Coffman Rehabilitation Center, the staff on third floor and fourth floor east at Meritus Hospital, and Hospice of Washington County.

Graveside services will be Thursday, September 21, 2023 at 11 AM at Ringgold Cemetery with Pastor Julie Brigham-Young officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 13156 Edgemont Rd., Smithsburg, MD 21783.

Arrangements made by J.L. Davis Funeral Home, Smithsburg, MD, and online condolences can be offered at www.jldavsifh.com.