Uriel Yaacov Hoffmann was born the eldest of four children on April 6, 1959 in Tallahassee, Florida to Anne Hoffmann Strickland and John Aubra Strickland. Later, stepfather Raymond Dobbs became "Dad."
As a young child, Uri was a lover of books- his mom would give him the Sears catalog and Encyclopedias to read. That began his desire to read anything and everything he could get his hands on. He had a beautiful voice - a rare baritone - and sang in a variety of choruses. He also spoke many languages and as a young adult worked as an interpreter.
After graduating from Lyman High School, Uri lived in Downtown Orlando and then moved to Atlanta, Georgia. Of true southern roots, he was a Coca Cola lover and delved into the food scene where he worked for the Pleasant Peasant, a casual fine dining chain across Atlanta. He moved on to manage the Bridgetown Grill in the Little Five Points area.
His true love of food came to light when cooking for family and friends- he especially loved French cuisine. Well, French anything. He was that person that could go into any kitchen and whip up a torte with whatever ingredients on hand for a party that very evening.
Uri moved back to Florida to be near family, living in New Smyrna Beach and Winter Park before settling in Longwood. Once "home", he worked a variety of jobs. He never met a stranger- and made friends everywhere he went. Literally everywhere.
As a young man, Uri converted to Judaism and was devout in his faith. But he joined his Lutheran family in attending services and celebrating holidays- whether they were 'his' holiday or not.
He was unequivocally loved by his family. One of his (and his parents) fondest memories was marching in the Atlanta Gay Pride Parade together. A photo of them during the event hung on the walls until their house sold.
He was nothing if not an intellectual and could carry many conversations, whether they be about politics or Oprah Winfrey. And whether he was right or wrong, you always came away thinking he was right.
Once his dad passed, Uri moved in with his mother and the two lived many years together- traveling, shopping, dining out, attending family events. They were always there for everyone: No ask or task was too big or small for them. They took their camaraderie on the road and traveled to far away destinations together, making lots of memories. He never failed to take his beloved 'Basil' (a stuffed rabbit) on their adventures- and photographed Basil in many countries and cities.
He was a true kind and gentle soul. His siblings will be forever indebted to him for the care he took of their parents in their final years. Their comfort was his comfort.
Uri passed away on December 10. He is surely in heaven with mom and dad, dancing, singing and sending "gobs of love" to all of us. If you like to
make a memorial donation please do so to St. Stephen Lutheran Church.