Naomi Hoare 1920 - 2024

It is with heartfelt sadness that we announce the passing of Naomi Hoare, the wife of our first Headmaster Admiral Desmond Hoare, who led the college between 1962 - 1969, at the age of 103 in Ballyisland in Ireland. 

Naomi and Desmond were instrumental in the founding of the College and the creation of the world's most widely used craft for inshore rescue, the rigid inflatable boat (RIB).

“Naomi clearly gave a huge amount to Atlantic College, and was dearly loved. We owe a huge debt of gratitude to her and Desmond”. Jill Longson, Chair of the UWC Atlantic Board.

During her time at Atlantic College Naomi applied her dress-making skills to the adaptation of neoprene rubber. After experimenting with different patterns she was able to create a series of patterns that enabled her to measure every single student and staff involved in the sea-going activities and helped them create a skin suit.

"Naomi was an absolutely key figure in the creation of the College, supporting Desmond in everything he did, an adventurous sailor in tricky waters, a remarkable hostess entertaining visitors almost daily, equally at home with royalty,  prospective donors, journalists and educators from all over the world. " Andrew Maclehose, former teacher (1966 - 82).

Naomi was incredibly well-loved by the students during her tenure here, as Willem F P de Vogel (AC '69) remarks:

"Naomi may be remembered for the wet suits. But really her courage and skill on the Bristol Channel demonstrated for all students what was possible. She exuded the Kurt Hahn spirit and was a great role model for me."

Naomi will be mourned by her son Mark, daughter Stephanie, daughter-in-law Pauline, grandsons Beren and Christopher and granddaughter Sinéad, extended family, friends and loved ones. Remembering also her late husband Desmond and daughter Judy.