Deanna (Hoffman) Hess

Deanna Hess (née Hoffman), 85, of Jackson, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 22, 2026, at The Orchards in Jackson.

Born in Tenafly, NJ, Deanna made her home in Brick for more than 50 years before relocating to Jackson. She dedicated many years of service as a legal secretary with the Neff Law Firm in Brick, where she was known for her professionalism and unwavering work ethic.

Always eager for the next adventure and new opportunities, Deanna later earned her cosmetology license and enjoyed a long and fulfilling career as a beautician. Her warmth and kindness, earned her the loyalty and friendship of a devoted clientele, many of whom became lifelong friends.

As an adventurous spirit, Deanna found great joy in traveling. Together with her brothers, sister, and in-laws, she explored destinations across the globe, creating treasured memories in China, Australia, throughout Europe—including Greece and Italy—and countless other remarkable places. She embraced each journey with curiosity, laughter, and a deep appreciation for the people and cultures she encountered.

Her adventurous spirit knew no bounds. From racing down the world's highest and longest zip line, to mushing a dog sled through the Alaskan wilderness, to savoring grubs in the Australian Outback, Deanna approached every experience with fearless enthusiasm and wide-eyed curiosity. Whether exploring remote corners of the globe or enjoying her cherished annual Las Vegas adventures with her daughter—filled with laughter, shows, and unforgettable moments—she lived life to the fullest, leaving behind a lifetime of stories and memories that her family will cherish for years to come.

Deanna was a member of St. Paul's United Methodist Church in Brick and enjoyed the camaraderie of her many friends in the Red Hat Society. An enthusiastic golfer, she spent hours on the fairways as a member of several ladies' golf leagues at Lakewood Golf Club and Spring Meadows Golf Club. Whether sharing a round of golf, gathering with friends, or spending time with those she loved most, Deanna's warm smile, spirit, and generous heart left a lasting impression on everyone.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, George A. Hess Jr.; her parents, Kermit and Arlene (Bossons) Hoffman; her brothers, Kermit Jr. and Dennis Hoffman; and her sister and brother-in-law, Beverly and Walter Haass.

She leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish her memory: her sons, Gregory (Michelle) Hess of Jackson, NJ, and George A. (Ann) Hess III of Pittsburgh, PA; her daughters, Doreen Sussman of Keyport, NJ, and Dawn (Al) Lee of Okeechobee, FL; four grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; her sisters-in-law, Jennette Hoffman and Andrea Hoffman; along with many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends whose lives were enriched by knowing her.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Deanna's life on Thursday, July 9, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Timothy E. Ryan Home for Funerals, 150 West Veterans Highway, Jackson, NJ. A burial service will take place on Friday, July 10, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. at the BG William C. Doyle Veterans Cemetery in Wrightstown, NJ, where she will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband.

In lieu of flowers donations many be made to the https://www.abcf.org/

The family invites those wishing to offer condolences or share cherished memories to do so by visiting www.ryanfuneralhome.com.

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