Bette C. Hoag

The undisputed matriarch of her family, Bette was a woman of timeless elegance and effortless class. Impeccably put together in her signature style—and rarely seen without one of her beautifully knit sweaters—she brought grace and warmth into every room. Her home was a reflection of her vibrant spirit, filled with the bright red of her beloved cardinals, the delicate buzz of hummingbirds at her feeders, and the comforting aromas of her home-cooked meals.

Born on October 17, 1928, in Westfield, New Jersey, to Philip and Gladys (Lye) Cameron, Bette attended Westfield High School. It was through her brother, Gordon, that she met the love of her life, Danforth “Dan” Hoag, while he was in college. Before their marriage, Bette lived in Sparta, renting a room in the historic building that now houses Cafe Pierrot, before the couple bought their first home on Lake Mohawk. They were married on December 18, 1954, beginning a remarkable 67-year journey together.

Early in her career, Bette worked at Britt’s Department Store and Wes Freedman’s Jewelry Store. Alongside Dan, she was an entrepreneur and community pillar, owning Danforth’s, Danforth’s Snack Inn, and co-owner of the Valley View Motor Lodge in Sparta. She later dedicated herself fully as a homemaker, devoting her energy to raising their five children.

Bette lived life with joy and passion. She loved singing with the Sweet Adelines choir, soaking up the sun near the water with her girlfriends, watching game shows, knitting, baking, and cooking. She was famous for baking legendary apple pies and cookies, but above all, she was a fierce card player. A master at rummy who taught generations of her family how to play, she was still sitting at the table and winning nearly every hand well into her final year.

Her unforgettable laugh, steady presence, and fiery spirit leave a void that cannot be filled. While her family takes comfort in knowing she has been reunited with Dan and her loved ones, her warmth, traditions, and legacy live on in the hearts of those she cherished most.

Bette was predeceased by her beloved husband, Dan; her parents; her brother, Gordon; and her sister, Jeanette.

She is survived by her five devoted children: Dan & Dee Hoag, Drew & Tracy Hoag, Scott & Diane Overmire, Art & Donna Kapetanakis, and Dean & Maria Hoag. She leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Sarah Hoag, Danny Hoag, Kenny & Amie Baker, David & Brittany Hoag, Ashlie & Mike Bennett, James Overmire, Stephen Kapetanakis, Michael Kapetanakis, Amanda Hoag & Lou Hampton, Cameron Hoag, Mallory & Mark Uhlig, Cassandra & Cory Bogas, and Miranda & Brayden McLaughlin; her precious great-grandchildren: Julien, Daniella, Kayla, Brooks, Alexa, Brayden, Julia, Logan, Nathan, Austin, Leo, Vivian, and Ayden; her niece, Linda Clemens; and her nephews, Tom and Chuck Beddows.

Services will be private.