Donnie Lee Hall was born October 15, 1935, at home on the farm, in Galesburg, Kansas, to Fred and Leona (Lewis) Hall. He grew up working on the farm, where he learned the strong work ethic that characterized him throughout his life. On February 17, 1956, he married Norma Jean Miller in the Galesburg Christian Church. Don and Norma were married for 68 years.
Don and Norma were the proud parents of three sons, Brad, Doug, and Greg. Don was constantly involved with his sons, coaching their ball teams, taking them fishing and hunting, and teaching them responsibility and integrity. Don had high expectations of his sons and always led by example. He was proud of their accomplishments and always encouraged them in whatever they did. He was a stellar example and a much-loved grandpa to his five grandchildren and to his fifteen great-grandchildren.
After graduating in accounting from Pittsburg State Teacher’s College where he was in Army R.O.T.C., Don served in the U.S. Army as an Artillery officer. He was honorably discharged with a rank of Captain. After serving in the military, he worked for a short time for the Internal Revenue Service before transferring to the Department of Agriculture. Don eventually became the Chief of the Commodities Division. Don retired from the U.S.D.A. in 1992. During tax season, he also prepared taxes for hundreds of people. In later years, he primarily prepared taxes for widows without charge. It was not a job; it was a ministry.
Don was a faithful member and a well-respected leader for over fifty years at First Baptist Church of Shawnee. He served for many years as the church treasurer. He was the Chairman of Deacons and the Church Moderator. He also served on many committees, worked on the building and grounds, and went on mission trips with the church. In recent years, Don and Norma moved their membership to Lenexa Baptist Church.
Don was known for his wisdom, his integrity, and his generous spirit. He was highly respected in his work, his church, and his community. He was known and respected for his leadership skills, his determination, his faithfulness, and his willingness to get in and work to get the job done.
Don was a loving and devoted husband, a wonderful father, and an incredible grandpa. He was a stellar example for family and friends. His boys and his grandchildren often said they wanted to grow up to be as good a person as him.
Don passed away at home on Monday morning, September 9, 2024. He was 88-years old. As a faithful Christian, he was confident of his eternal home with Jesus. Above all, he wanted to be sure that his family members and friends would one day join him in his heavenly home.
Don is survived by his wife and his three sons, Brad, Doug (Diana) and Greg (Lynne), by his 5 grandchildren, Rachel (Jeremy) Hankins, David (Alex) Hall, Kristi (Matt) Pogue, Amanda (Kevin) Spharler, and Sarah Hall, and by his 15 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by a sister, Vicky Bohn, sister-in-laws, Lonva Hall and Janice (George) Dorris.
He was preceded in death by his parents and two siblings, Alta Mae Merrill and Dwain Hall.
The Celebration of Life Service will be at Lenexa Baptist Church in Lenexa, Kansas, at 2:00 PM on Monday, September 16, 2024, with visitation one hour prior to the service. Graveside Services will follow at Shawnee Cemetery, Shawnee, Kansas. The family suggests memorial contributions to City Union Mission, where Don helped cook and serve meals to the homeless. Checks should be made out to City Union Mission in care of the church.