![A picture of Hilda Klingaman Imhoff]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1736356968/friendsbaltorg/z6kxb16racm0l9vgbauv/CopyofNewsThumbnailTemplate12.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1736356968/friendsbaltorg/z6kxb16racm0l9vgbauv/CopyofNewsThumbnailTemplate12.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1736356968/friendsbaltorg/z6kxb16racm0l9vgbauv/CopyofNewsThumbnailTemplate12.png","width":800}])
The Friends School of Baltimore community was sad to learn of the passing of Hilda Klingaman Imhoff, a cherished English teacher and theater enthusiast who inspired generations of students through her love of literature, language, and drama. Ms. Imhoff passed away on December 17, 2024 at the age of 86 at Springwell Senior Living Community.
Born in Albany, New York, and a graduate of Mount Holyoke College, Ms. Imhoff’s passion for drama was evident from her early years. She starred in high school productions, served as president of her college’s Dramatic Club, and continued her love of performance throughout her teaching career.
Joining Friends School as a teacher and director, Ms. Imhoff brought Shakespeare, Dickens, and the power of performance to life for her students. A visionary educator, Ms. Imhoff established the Shakespeare course as a cornerstone of the School’s English elective program. Longtime Friends School English teacher Gary Blauvelt fondly remembered her innovative approach to teaching plays, which captivated students and brought them closer to Shakespeare's works. Beyond the classroom, Ms. Imhoff staged memorable spring musicals, including a dynamic production of Anything Goes.
Known for her vibrant personality and quick wit, she enlivened many a faculty meeting and left an indelible mark on the Friends School community. In 2002, she was honored with the Alumni Association’s Honorary Alumni Award, “given each year to a community member who exemplifies the Quaker philosophy and spirit, and who gives of himself or herself to further the growth of Friends School and its community.”
Ms. Imhoff was also a devoted wife to Ernest F. Imhoff, a Baltimore Evening Sun editor, and a loving mother and grandmother. A fan of mystery novels, choir singer, and theater enthusiast, she led a rich and fulfilling life. She is survived by her three FSB graduates, Jennifer Imhoff Foley '82, Peter Imhoff '84, and Matthew Imhoff '86.
Her life will be celebrated on March 8 at Brown Memorial Presbyterian Church. Friends School extends its deepest condolences to her family and honors her legacy of creativity, passion, and dedication to education.
Hilda’s obituary originally appeared in The Baltimore Sun on December 27. To view the article click here.