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Dr. Arthur Halbrook Obituary
~ I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. ~ 2 Timothy 4:7
Arthur Marshall Halbrook, 72, of Baton Rouge, LA, passed away peacefully at 5:22 AM on Saturday, January 30, 2021 in his residence, surrounded by his loving family.
Dr. Halbrook, Ph.D. was born February 20, 1948 in Monroe, LA, and graduated from LSU. He taught English at Ouachita Parish High School in Monroe and was named Louisiana’s Outstanding educator in 1976. In 1978, he received a Fulbright Fellowship to England, where he taught literature and composition for grades 6 through 12. In 1991, he received a Ph.D. from LSU and then became a program manager for the Louisiana Department of Education. At the Department, he directed the state’s first large-scale direct writing assessment. He also worked as the Writing Assessment Specialist for the General Educational Development Testing Service (GEDTS) in Washington, DC. During his final years in Washington, he served at the Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO), where he coordinated multi-state consortia and worked with the National Teacher of the Year program. After his retirement in 2007, he moved to Baton Rouge, where he served at LSU in various capacities at the College of Human Sciences and Education. Dr. Halbrook also found time to pursue his passion for fishing, hunting, and traveling.
Dr. Halbrook is survived by his wife of thirteen years, Judy Jones Halbrook; sister, Alice H. Middleton and husband Tom; niece, Nicole Fuller and husband Chris; nephews, Adam Middleton and wife Jamie and Dr. Kirk Middleton and wife Jessica; two great-nephews; and five great-nieces.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Helen West and Louie Marshall Halbrook; and brother, Wesley Lee Halbrook.
His funeral service will be held at 1:00 PM on Wednesday, February 3, 2021 at Johnson Funeral Home in Moss Bluff. Burial will follow in Pine Hill Cemetery in Iowa, LA. Visitation will be on Wednesday at the funeral home from 10:00 AM until the start of the service.
Memories and Condolences
for Dr. Arthur Halbrook
46 Entries
Jackie Humphrey
July 20, 2022
I don’t know why I suddenly decided to Google Dr Halbrook, so I was sorry to find he had died. I was one of his students in Eastbourne in the UK. He had a different style of teaching and I remember a lot from his lessons. Getting used to the accent took a few lessons though, it was something we had not come across in Southern England in the days before the internet.
Heaven got a little better with you there
Dawn BrownBrown
February 10, 2022
What a wonderful man, I met you when I was 15 and you inspired me life long to dream and pursue my education, and to overcome. Thank you my friend. It’s hard to believe you’ve been gone nearly a year. My prayers to your beloved wife and family. LSU forever!
John Purcell
February 21, 2021
I first met Marshall in Eastbourne in August 1978 when he arrived to share the house that I was renting. He was about to embark on a year’s teaching English at Eastbourne Grammar and High School as part of a USA/UK teaching exchange. His joie de vivre and enthusiasm for new experiences were immediately apparent so I informed him that I was about to drive my girlfriend and her sister to Paris in the next couple of days – would he like to come along? You bet . . . and thus began his love affair with France.
My Renault 4 had an old-fashioned sun roof and Marshall spent a lot of time with his head and shoulders poking up through the roof snapping away with his camera as we drove round the sights of Paris.
On our return, the process of Marshall’s anglicisation began in earnest: English roasts and Harvey’s best bitter became firm favourites. British slang started to appear in his everyday speech.
At school the students adored him. He practically bounced along the corridors and infected his pupils with the same zest for English and for life that he had. An example of this: he and I were put in charge of a young soccer squad on a Wednesday afternoon. He played for one team and I played for the other while both of us refereed the match blowing into our refs’ whistles ad lib, cheekily disallowing goals that the other side had scored while awarding free kicks and penalties to our own side. The boys thoroughly enjoyed our anarchic refereeing.
His beloved little red sports car ferried him from home to school, around the UK and into France. Marshall taught some of the children in our street the basics of basketball and the doorbell would often ring with: “Is Marshall coming out to play?”
On hearing the news of our engagement, Marshall generously treated Jan and me to a very expensive meal in the Hungry Monk restaurant in Jevington. The bill came to an eye-watering amount but Marshall simply paid up with his habitual huge smile.
The last time I saw Marshall was in the early part of this century when he brought Judy to England. We drove up to Christ’s College, Cambridge where I had a reunion dinner. I invited Marshall and Judy into the college room that had been made available to me. He was so excited to be in a room in the same college where John Milton had studied.
It would be fair to say that Marshall left an enormous impact behind him and we all, staff and students alike, remember him very fondly. Rest in peace, dear friend.
Brenda McCavour
February 20, 2021
My condolences. I just read about Art's death as I went to wish him a happy birthday. We were close friends for over thirty years and I can't believe he is gone. My world is a little darker today. If there is a river or lake in some other place, I know he is there, casting a line, maybe on the mighty Miramichi, hooking a salmon. Too soon gone, my friend. Bren-Bren and Little Squirrel xo
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Rebecca Christian
February 4, 2021
We were all a bit wiser & definitely happier when we visited a bit with our friend & colleague, Art Halbrook. God’s blessings on Judy & the family in this time of loss. You are in my heart & in my prayers
Rebecca Christian
Arlene and Paul Coreil
February 4, 2021
Dear Judy,
Art will be greatly missed and will always be remembered as a very kind, happy, genuine man. The world is a better place because of Art. May he Rest In Peace and may you feel God’s love during this difficult time. Art is in a better place. With time and prayers, sadness will subside and all of your happy memories will live on! May God bless you! We love you!
Bobbi Jo Nunez
February 4, 2021
MAY the LIGHT SHINE UPON YOU & MAY YOUR LOVE AND YOUR MEMORY NEVER BE FORGOTTEN!
Bobbi Jo Nunez
February 4, 2021
Arthur was an AMAZING MAN, l Loved his Character and his Sence of Humor , MAY YOU REST IN PEACE MY DEAR FRIEND! YOU SURELY WILL BE MISSED BY SO MANY OF THE LIVES YOU HAVE TOUCHED !
Colleen and John Gil
February 3, 2021
Art was such a wonderful person and a great neighbor. He always knew how to put a smile on your face. We enjoyed visiting with him on his nightly bike rides and John loved hearing his stories about his outdoor adventures. You are in our thoughts Mrs. Judy. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need anything. -Colleen
Jane John
February 3, 2021
Art always brought a smile to my face. He was kind, caring and a real gentleman. He would help you in any way if he could. We will all miss him but we know he is with Jesus and we take great comfort knowing this. God bless his precious loving wife, Judy and family.
Jane John
Glenn Kidder
February 3, 2021
Art/Marshall was one of the nicest guys I've ever known. Always upbeat with a smile on his face.
Our world would be better with more folks like him. God bless him, Judy and his family.
Bret Ripley
February 3, 2021
As a retired college professor, I can say that you were my #1 professional inspiration, hands down. Thanks, Marsh!
Paul Buller
February 3, 2021
I'll say that as one of his neighbors of 12 years or so, one thing that has remained constant over those 12 years is the fact that Art was always on full display as one of the most positive personalities I've ever encountered. He was one of those people that at one time or another inevitably caused you to wish that you were more like him. Our little neighborhood has suffered a great loss with Mr. Art's passing and he will be greatly missed by all ages within our community. Love you, Mrs. Judy.
Roger Press
February 2, 2021
When a friendship spans 40+ years, there has to be a reason. Art (Marshall, as I knew him by) and I met though the Fulbright Teacher Exchange Program, which took him to England and me to Louisiana. We kept in touch, and after I married and moved to the U.S., we saw each other regularly at teacher conferences and in DC working for American Council for Education. Our last visit with Judy and Art was late 2019. We had a great time in Baton Rouge, reliving the past and enjoying the present moment. Art was funny, smart, always ready with a story about LSU football, his travels, hunting and fishing, but his greatest pride and joy came from his and Judy’s combined families. While their time together was a short 13 years, it was the happiest that we ever saw him.
He only just stepped through a door to another world and we must wait our turn. He’s waiting with new stories to tell us all.
Kelly Lewis
February 2, 2021
Marshall was first my Teacher, then later, my friend. His passion about literature, travel & life in general was infectious. He loved sharing everything he knew, and most anything he had, with anyone that was interested. He was a joy to watch teach. He was fun, and emoted such enthusiasm. He could tell a really good story. Marshall immensely impacted my life and it seems significantly darker without him here.
Gary & Kala Billedeaux
February 2, 2021
Judy, so sorry for your loss; our thoughts and prayers going out to your families..he will be greatly missed
Karen Manuel
February 2, 2021
Judy, I am so sorry about Art. I know he put up a good fight and you were such a blessing! My prayers are with you! Karen Manuel
Gertrude Nowlan
February 2, 2021
My husband, Michael Nowlan, spent time travelling with Arthur to different schools in New Brunswick, Canada in the fall of 1995. They had kept in touch every year at Christmas until 2019, when I neglected to send a card. Art sent many pictures of his fishing trips, which we enjoyed very much. Michael had a stroke in 2017 and now has memory problems, buy he still remembers Art. Sincere symapthy to all the family. Gertrude
Sam Pernici
February 2, 2021
I worked with Art during his tenure in the La. Dept. of Ed. working with the State Assessment Program. We became friends immediately. I’ll remember him as witty, very intelligent, diligent, humorous and always using big words that I had to look up. I will remember our times in a duck blind and attending a Red Sox Game at Fenway Park. What a loss. Judy, you have my deepest sympathy.
Julie Barrett Cupples
February 2, 2021
I had Mr. Halbrook my senior year at OPHS (Class of 1983). He was an amazing teacher/man who made a great impact on my life as well as countless others. He challenged us. He made us all better. Sending prayers for all of you.
Linda McNabb Shaffer
February 2, 2021
Judy & family of Marshall,
I was so vey sorry to read of Marshall's death in the BR paper. We were classmates way back @ Mohican Elementary in BR in the 1950's & shared the month of February as birth month but I was a couple of weeks older! I remember his Mom was always very active at school, in PTA & as class Room Mother, helping with class parties and such. I am so glad I was able to reconnect with him when Istrouma High School had their 50th Class Reunion in 2016. I will always remember his smile; in fact, that is how I 1st recognized him @ the Reunion, his smile & being tall & thin!
It is quite apparent that he had such a love for family & LSU. Ya'll have a lot of good memories to remember & share.
Marshall, are you secretly editing our writing?
With Sympathy,
Linda McNabb Shaffer
Kim Sanderson
February 2, 2021
I had Mr. Halbrook for English. He was a tough teacher, but one that I grew to admire. He expected a lot, but he gave a lot. I didn't realize it at the time, but later in years it paid off as I turned in to a teacher as well. I saw potential in students and would push them just like Mr. Halbrook would push his students. It was always in a caring way he taught. His passion about other countries cultures was passed along in class. I pray his family finds peace and comfort in knowing he left a legacy for many to carry on. May he rest in peace and continue to watch over family and friends as a guardian angel. Continued prayers for the family.
Brent Harrel
February 2, 2021
He was my senior English teacher in 1980-81. I learned so much in his class and it was well and fondly remembered. We had fun learning. One of my best classes. My God give comfort during this time.
Janice Harrison Robinson
February 2, 2021
I am one of the Norsworthy/Halbrook cousins. There were 11 of us born between 1947 & 1957. We were all very close and grew up in a loving family. Alice (Sister) and I spent many days together between Bastrop and Baton Rouge. Marshall “tolerated” Sister, Bud and I. When he got his driver’s license, he would drop us off at the movies, the mall and even the State Capitol to spend the day and pick us up late in the day. He was a very intelligent, compassionate man that was blessed with a love of teaching. Hundreds of his former students have posted outstanding stories of how Marshall influenced their lives. I am blessed to have had him in my life and will continue to love and care for Sister forever❤. Marshall, I will see you again one day in Heaven
Melanie Landers Machnik
February 1, 2021
Mr. Halbrook was my teacher during my senior year ('75-'76) at OPHS. He was challenging and fascinating at the same time. True story - I made a 'B' on my term paper in his class and on the exact same term paper, with only two comma corrections, I made an 'A' in college, with another challenging professor. He was truly an inspiration to kids and adults alike.
Lisa Roush Spiller
February 1, 2021
Mr. Halbrook was the scariest name a junior or senior wanted to see on their schedule for English 3 and or 4... but if you were lucky enough to have him as a junior...you were definitely excited to get him again as a senior... he was the best and favorite teacher and mentor from high school and I know many classmates ...he was definitely a challenge and challenged us all to be the best. RIP Halbrook
Kevin Bearden
February 1, 2021
Art wasn’t only my Senior English teacher at OPHS in 76, but lived across the street from me and we became great friends. We hunted together many times, and had some amazing and funny adventures. I was able to reconnect with him at LSU ballgames as he had seats near me in the same section. He was truly a great and blessed educator, and we were all fortunate to know him. I am certain he was the reason I was able to clip out of my college English. You will be missed my friend. Your students are your legacy!
Allison Jenkins
February 1, 2021
Dr. Halbrook was my English teacher at Ouachita Parish High School in ~1981. I remember him well. He made class interesting and made us think. May he rest in peace knowing how many lives he positively impacted. He will not be forgotten.
Lynn Barton
February 1, 2021
Thank you for being a great teacher. Lynn ophs 1982
Elizabeth Perry
February 1, 2021
I can't believe such a light was taken way too early. Such a big personality, such a caring person. A great neighbor is every sense of the word neighbor. He will certainly be missed and leave a big hole in many people's lives. Much comfort and peace to you Judy.
Stanford and Lois LeBlanc
February 1, 2021
Judy: Our sincere sympathy to you and your family. We wish you comfort and peace.
Mary Ann Giardina
February 1, 2021
Judy,
We are so sorry about Art’s death because you have lost your soulmate. However, we are happy he is no longer in pain. We know he is in a better place now with God. Try to remember the good times & cherish those wonderful years you two had together. We are all better people for having known & loved Art. He will be missed. He was such a wonderful giving man & such a great friend & neighbor to Dad & Mom. I don’t know what we would have done without him after Dad died. He did all the little jobs Mom needed around the house that David could not get to while he was working. He was truly a godsend!! As are you!! Please know that we are praying now for you, for God to give you the strength you need to get through this difficult time. We love you!
Scott Nelson
February 1, 2021
I had Dr. Halbrook for English IV at Ouachita Parish High School during my senior year of 1974-75. He was a very good but very challenging teacher. He was definitely one of those who thought "outside the box." I have no doubt that he helped prepare me for college English, and college and life afterward, in general. My sympathies to his family.
Carolyn Arender Clarke
February 1, 2021
Dr Halbrook was my English teacher at Ouachita Parish High School my Senior year in 1975. He was a wonderful teacher and mentor. I am very sorry for your loss.
Patti Exner
February 1, 2021
Oh, Judy! Jerry and I are so very sad to see this. I was blessed to know Art for 30+ years. Supervising student teachers while working on his PhD, he always brought his own personal version of sunshine into my office. After he moved to DC and when I attended my first conference there, he graciously showed me some of the wonders of the area (proudly displaying his tux hanging in his car as he looked forward to attending Washington Mardi Gras that weekend). Later, he selflessly became an ambassador for the College, serving in any way asked...and with that ever present smile and infectious joy for life. He was clearly smitten with you from the beginning, always lighting up (even more than usual) when speaking of or being with you. I am just heartbroken that we now have an Art-less world...He will be missed! Thoughts and prayers with you...
February 1, 2021
Judy, I am so very sorry for the loss of your love. I always thought how wonderful it was that you two found each other. He’s at peace now. Please know that you are in my heart, dear cousin, and in my prayers.
Love to you, Sallie
Gary Cook
February 1, 2021
Dr. Halbrook taught me at Ouachita in the mid 70's. When we'd run into him at LSU football games , he always had time for us . He was a good man .
David McCaig
January 31, 2021
It's not often in life you find a friend such as you were. You have been a big part of my life and loom large in many memories. We will miss you, my good friend and brother in education. Your legacy will live on and know that Judy and all those loved you are grateful and blessed to have been a part of your story. Rest in peace.
From a song we both loved and heard played one night in Tralee, Ireland, June 1980:
Did they beat the drum slowly, did they sound the fifes lowly
Did they sound the death march as they lowered you down
Did the band play the last post and Did the pipes play the flowers of the forest
Did you leave a wife or a sweetheart behind
In some faithful heart is your memory enshrined
"Green Fields of France"
Connie Young Scott
January 31, 2021
Dr. Halbrook was a wonderful teacher. He will be remembered for his humor and his desire for you to learn as much as you could, all while enjoying what you were studying. His unique teaching style was unmatched by others. He taught me at OPHS, and helped me navigate my way through a difficult time in my senior year. He was a teacher, but he was also a friend to his students. He loved travel and braved taking students on their senior cruise, which was a blast. He will be fondly remembered and greatly missed.
Carla Mallett
January 31, 2021
We will miss you Mr. Art, you were so kind and thoughtful any time we would visit. The love you had for Mrs. Judy and your family was very evident, you lived your life to the fullest, loved with your whole heart, shared your skills with anyone who needed help, you will be missed beyond measure and it was a blessing to know you.
Dawn Brown
January 31, 2021
“So long and thanks for all the fish”
I miss you my friend, I’ll give your best to Jose and Lupe.
Rhonda Marionneaux Bellairs
January 31, 2021
I was one of Mr. Halbrook’s students at OPHS during what I think was his initial induction into teaching. He was one of the first teachers to open my eyes to new types of literature and college-prep writing. Although he was very demanding, he was well-liked and highly respected because he cared enough to challenge us. So sorry for your loss.
Michael Mic Lang
January 31, 2021
Judy, Art was my friend, coworker, classmate, roommate, and fraternity brother. We met in the late sixties in Monroe when he was working on his bachelor’s degree. We shared an apartment in Baton Rouge when he was working on his master’s degree. Years later we turned up at the state department of education where we were coworkers. During that time we worked on our PhDs together. We visited while he was stationed in DC when my job took me there. The last time I saw Art was a wonderful happen chance at a Buckeyes off of I-10 when I was traveling east and he was traveling west with your brother. I’m sorry that I cannot attend his funeral. Art was my friend and I’ll miss him dearly as I’m sure you will. I’ll pray for you as you work through your grief. Being a widower, I know some of what you will go through. I hope one day to meet with you. May God walk with you in the months to come.
Thania Elliott
January 31, 2021
Judy, I’m so sorry to learn of Art’s death in such a beautiful written obituary. My deepest sympathy to you and your family.
Charlotte Broussard
January 31, 2021
Judy, how sorry I am to hear of Art’s passing. Prayers for you and family.
Dave & Claudette Powell
January 31, 2021
A great neighbor, a good buddy,fishing partner and my good friend. Claudette and I will miss him dearly. Judy will forever remain our very close friend forever.
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