Alexander "AJ" Hoffman, Jr.

Alexander “AJ” Hoffman, Jr., 88, of Livonia, Michigan, passed away on February 19, 2026. Born on June 20, 1937, in Detroit, Michigan, Alexander was the beloved son of the late Alexander and Rose (Etlinger) Hoffman. He graduated from Taylor Central High School in 1955, where fate would begin writing one of the greatest love stories of his life.

During his high school years, AJ met the love of his life, Johanna, through mutual friends. Although she attended Allen Park High School and he attended Taylor Central, they lived only about a mile apart. In 1959, they were united in marriage at St. Cyril Church in Taylor, Michigan, beginning a partnership that would span more than 60 beautiful years. Together they built a loving home and were blessed with two children, Linda and Craig, whom they adored. Their love endured a lifetime, until Johanna’s passing in January 2021.

AJ devoted 40 years of his career as a skilled auto body painter at Stuart Wilson Ford Dealership (now Village Ford), where he was known for his dedication, loyalty, and exceptional craftsmanship. He retired in the early 1990s, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and friendships that lasted a lifetime.

Bigger than life, AJ had a presence that filled every room. He was a loyal friend, always willing to lend a helping hand. His smile was unforgettable, and his laugh — distinctive and contagious — brought joy to everyone around him.

A devoted sports fan, AJ was a lifelong supporter of the Detroit Tigers, but an even bigger fan of the Detroit Lions. One of his favorite stories to tell was about attending the 1953 Detroit Lions Championship Game at just 16 years old — a memory he cherished so deeply that he kept the original ticket stub his entire life. He was also an avid NASCAR fan and proudly cheered for Joey Logano, especially because he drove a Mustang.

AJ’s passion for cars was unmatched. He lovingly restored a 1979 Mustang and proudly showcased it at local car shows. Each year, he and his family looked forward to attending the Hines Cruise, celebrating the classic cars he loved so much.

He treasured time spent traveling with Johanna and three other couples, taking road trips out of state to attend NASCAR races. These adventures created lifelong memories and lasting friendships.

Alexander is survived by his daughter, Linda Hoffman; bonus son, Dennis Brunner; grandchildren, Nicole (Tom) Jones and Sarah (Brandon Chapman) Brunner; grandson, Liam; sisters, Barbara Ledda and Rose (Joe) Parnell; cousin, Sylvia Ladach; and many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his devoted wife of 61 years, Johanna Hoffman; his beloved son, Craig Hoffman; his parents, Alexander and Rose Hoffman; and his brother, Ed Hoffman.

AJ’s legacy of love, laughter, loyalty, and passion will live on in all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.