Sally Ann Hobson

Sally Ann (Schomaker) Hobson, age 91, of Shelby Township, Michigan, passed away peacefully on May 25, 2026, surrounded by her family. She was born on March 9, 1935, in Detroit, Michigan, to Delbert Henry and MaryBelle (McPhail) Schomaker, and grew up in Fraser, where her lifelong love of learning and teaching first began.

A graduate of Fraser High School, Sally earned her teaching degree from Eastern Michigan University in 1957. She went on to build a distinguished career in early childhood education.

On December 7, 1963, Sally married Robert Dale Hobson, the love of her life. Their marriage, grounded in faith and devotion, became a shining example of a Godly, loving partnership. Together they raised three sons and created a home filled with warmth, tradition, and laughter — a gathering place for countless holidays and celebrations.

After raising her three boys, Sally returned to teaching and was asked to create and direct Fraser Public Schools’ first preschool program. What began as a small community‑based program grew, under her leadership, into a fully integrated early childhood program that served hundreds of families and became a lasting part of the district.

Teaching was Sally’s calling. She poured her heart into helping young children grow, learn, and feel valued. Even in her later years, former preschool students would recognize her in public or stay in touch long after their school days had passed — a testament to her impact.

Sally and Bob took their sons on many camping adventures with their Coleman pop‑up camper, instilling in them a love of the outdoors and the joy of family time. Sally also loved music and often used it in her teaching, playing the piano in her classroom to guide children through daily routines. She and Bob were devoted University of Michigan fans and long‑time season ticket holders, faithfully attending games in rain, snow, or shine — always arriving early to tailgate.

Family was the center of Sally’s world. She and Bob attended nearly every event their children and grandchildren participated in — Scouts, music, sports, education, theatre, and more — until they were no longer able to travel. They were active members of St. John Lutheran Church in Rochester, Michigan, for more than 60 years, serving their community with humility and faith.

She is survived by her husband, Robert Dale Hobson; her sons, Dale Robert Hobson (Debra), Brent Richard Hobson, and Dean Michael Hobson (Shannon); her grandchildren, Dale Brooks, Noah Robert, Owen David, and Rafe Mitchell Hobson; Zachery Adam and Jacob Daniel Hobson; and Casey Marie and Michael Dean Hobson; and her sister, Delberta (Schomaker) Jennings.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Delbert Henry and MaryBelle Schomaker.

Sally lived a life defined by faith, family, service, and love. She touched countless lives — in her classroom, in her church, and in her home — and her gentle spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Memorial Visitation will be held Friday, June 12, 2026, from 3:00pm until 7:00pm at Pixley Funeral Home, 322 W. University Drive, Rochester. Memorial Service will be held Saturday, June 13, 2026, at 11:00am (Memorial Gathering 10:00am) at St. John Lutheran Church, 1011 W. University Drive, Rochester. A bereavement luncheon will follow. Inurnment will take place at Christian Memorial Gardens West in a private, family‑only gathering.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the St. John Foundation, specifically to the Teacher Honorarium Fund, in memory of Sally.