Kristi Thompson Hoag, of Rock Stream, born November 7, 1952, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by love and family.
She was raised on her family’s farms in rural Leland, Illinois, where she developed a lifelong grounding in hard work, curiosity, faith, and community.
Kristi graduated from Leland High School in 1970 and earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary and Special Education from Northern Illinois University in 1974, graduating Summa Cum Laude. She later earned a Master’s Degree in Special Education from Mansfield University and a School District Administrative Certificate. Her career in education spanned decades, including roles as a Special Education teacher (K–12), Director of Special Education, Assistant Principal, and Associate Director of Curriculum and Instruction. She was honored with the Annie Sullivan Award for teaching excellence and later continued her work as an independent educational consultant.
Deeply committed to service, Kristi was active in the Junior League of Greater Elmira-Corning, Chapter CQ of P.E.O., and served on several nonprofit boards, including Literacy Volunteers and the Arts Center of Yates County.
Kristi shared a love of sailing, travel, and community with her husband, Jim Hoag. Longtime friends before becoming partners for life, they were married on April 10, 2010, in Savannah, Georgia. Together, they made their home on Seneca Lake and spent winters in Rancho Mirage, California, surrounded by cherished friends. A lifelong traveler, Kristi visited all 50 states and more than 40 countries. She took great joy in learning, reading, genealogy, cooking, and creating welcoming spaces for others.
She is survived by her husband, James Hoag; her stepsons, Bryan (Whitney) Hoag and Eric (Tara) Pierce; grandchildren, Miles and Evie Hoag; step-grandchildren, Lily and Eastman Pierce; her sister, Klaris (Matt) Nisbet; nephew, Mark (Stephanie) Nisbet; niece, Kristin (Cliff) White; and great-niece and great-nephew, Clara Nisbet and Cameron White. She was preceded in death by her parents.
Grounded in faith and defined by compassion, curiosity, and a steadfast belief in the power of education, Kristi lived a life rich in meaning and love.
In her memory, memorial contributions may be made to Habitat for Humanity. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Kristi will be interred at Rock Stream Cemetery in Rock Stream, NY.
