Francis A. Hoffman, former corporation attorney, who played a prominent role as a Democratic leader, died Tuesday in Los Angeles at the age of 79 years. After funeral services next Saturday, the body will be sent to Chicago and buried in Graceland cemetery.

The deceased leaves besides the widow a daughter, Mrs. O. W. Sheehan, Cuba, and four sons: Paul G., F. A. Jr., and George in Chicago, and Sylvester in Pasadena.