Vermont lost one of its first ladies last week. Shelburne resident Joan Brower Hoff, wife of Gov. Phil Hoff, passed away at the age of 95 on Monday, June 29. Her husband died in 2018. The Hoffs married in 1948 and came to Vermont in 1950, according to her obituary. Joan is described as a full partner in her husband's three successful campaigns for governor in the 1960s, as well as his unsuccessful run for the U.S. Senate in 1970.
Joan was an advocate for children and families, and served as chair of the Vermont Board of Education in the mid-1970s. She is survived by four daughters and their families.
A memorial service will be held after COVID-19 travel restrictions are lifted. Meanwhile, donations can be made in her memory to Prevent Child Abuse Vermont.
