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Thompson Hall Obituary
Waiting to greet Tom were his parents, Thompson and Alma Hall; and beloved in-laws, Hugh and Katherine Anderson. Left behind to cherish his memory are his wife of 40 years, Phyllis A. Hall, of Roanoke; and her brother, Thomas W. Anderson, of Montvale, Va. Additionally sharing in the legacy of his love and laughter are his daughter and son-in-law, Kari and Chip Sullivan, of Troutville; and the loves of his life, grandchildren, Kalley, Camryn, and Colby Sullivan. Other dear family members include his niece, Allison Thornton, of Roanoke; and sister and nephew, Shirley and Kevin Naniewicz, of Scott Township, Pa.
Tom retired as Deputy Superintendent of Roanoke County Public Schools in 2009 after 37 years of service. Beginning as a sixth grade teacher, he served as an assistant principal and principal of several schools, particularly his second home, Mountain View Elementary. Once he moved into central administration, he never lost sight of his priorities in education. He radiated kindness, compassion, and spread an infectious enthusiasm for life and learning. Tom reminded all educators constantly, "It doesn't matter most what you teach the students. What matters most is how you make them FEEL." Anyone in Tom's presence "felt good."
Born in Peckville, Pa., Tom entered the United States Air Force in 1968. He served honorably at Eglin Air Force Base in Florida as a special air medic until his discharge in 1972. Sgt. Hall was a highly decorated veteran, having been awarded the Air Force Commendation Medal, Air Force Life Savers Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Armed Forces Medal. After his time in the Air Force, Tom earned undergraduate and graduate degrees from Virginia Tech and Radford University.
Tom was a humorously competitive basketball player as well as an avid golfer. Happy days on the golf course filled much of his life. He held the course record of 62 at Countryside until the course closed, and wouldn't let anyone forget about it. In this vein, a scholarship has been established in his memory for Roanoke County Schools. This scholarship will be awarded to a graduating senior from Roanoke County who is a current member of their school's golf team.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to the Tom Hall Memorial Scholarship Fund. Please forward your contribution to Roanoke County Schools Education Foundation, Inc., 5937 Cove Road, Roanoke, VA 24019, Attn: Jean Wynn.
The family will receive friends from 2 to 4 p.m. and from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, September 1, 2011, at Oakey's North Chapel. The Memorial Service will be held at 6 p.m. on Friday, September 2, 2011, at North Roanoke Baptist Church. A reception will follow in the church fellowship hall.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Thompson Hall
Timothy Michael McGee
December 28, 2023
Tom Hall was my favorite teacher. He was my sixth grade teacher in 1977-1978. He was a real life hero. He saved Eddie Furrow from choking to death. He stressed the importance of learning basic first aid after that. He taught us many basic lessons about life. To young men he set an example of gentlemanly values to young woman he instilled the virtues of ladylike behavior. He was an incisive intellect that could distill any subject to its essence making facts, figures or abstract ideas plain to any child to understand. He so often stirred class discussions into an amazing chorus of thoughts and ideas intermeshing into thought provoking symphonies of history , mathematics, science and literature. He could begin an educational subject with parables of life whether it was a story from his Airforce service or a hunting story or even a sports story. By the end of the story we could apply the lesson to whatever we were learning and remember it. He was always good natured in a good mood with a big smile from ear to ear. In the spring of that 6th grade year my parents were getting divorced. Mr. Hall was always a patient, thoughtful adult that I could look up to. He inspired me many ways to be a gentleman, a better student and to serve my country. He was a great man. Our world is a poorer place without him. I am so saddened to hear of his passing but I know a man with such a good heart and a kind soul can only find his place in the house of our lord.
Pat and Dale Murray
September 13, 2011
Phyllis and Kari, we are so sorry to hear of Tom's passing. He was a great guy and a great cousin. Our thoughts and prayers are with you
Sylvia and Sam LaDuct
September 5, 2011
Dear Phyllis and Kari, I cannot express the sadness we have felt since hearing about Tom. Just reading comments on these pages about Tom tells what a caring, wonderful person he was. I'll always remember our Green Ridge days with fondness. Tom was a great guy, and was always fun to be around. I know he will be missed by many. Please know you have my deepest sympathy, and all my love and prayers. Asking God to help you both get through, and give you the strength you need for each day. Hang tight to those happy memories, nothing can ever take those away! Love to you both.
Chuck Bailey
September 4, 2011
I was deeply saddened to hear of the loss of Mr. Hall the other day. I know he is in a better place now. I choose to not be saddened by his loss to Us but happy to celebrate His life. Mr. Hall left many Great memories with so many people around the Roanoke Valley and many places beyond. Here's to you Mr. Hall.
Paul Ragland, Jr
September 4, 2011
I am still in shock. I just heard the sad news today of Tom's passing. I first met Tom as a Kindergartner at Mason's Cove Elementary in 78/79. Joan Simpson was my Teacher, and she chose me and a girl to take cookies down to the 6th Grade Teachers. Tom happened to be one of those Teachers. As an 18 yr old I started playing basketball with him, Trumbower, Richard/"Hammer", Aaron, Brian Falls & the rest of the gang at Mountain View Elementary. That was in 1992. Played with him and the others on Monday and Wednesdays from then through the transition to Glen Cove. So many laughs, hard fault "geezers vs young guys" games & the like through the years. After getting married and not being able to play as often due to schedule, I still enjoyed when I could make it. I remember looking forward to showing him pics of my family, especially my little ones. I could ramble on & on about him. He was a decent man, who loved his family, loved his job, & brought a smile to many a face. He will indeed be missed. I pray the Lord will provide the strength, guidance, & everything else needed during this extremely difficult time.
Deut. 31:8 "The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”
Saddened by the Loss of Tom/Big B
Love and Prayers
Paul Ragland Jr/"Bubble"
Pam (Cook) Davis
September 3, 2011
Phyllis and Happy, I was so shocked to hear about Tom. He will be greatly missed. I will never forget you all when we all went to Green Ridge Baptist. We had some good times. If I can do anything for you all let me know. God Bless you and keep your faith. God will get you through this very trying time. Love ya and miss ya
Belinda Kragh
September 3, 2011
i cant believe he is gone he was my elementary principle at mountain view and followed me untill i graduated in 2006 as super intendant he was a great man and will be very missed
Robert Stanley
September 2, 2011
I was shocked and saddened to hear the news of Tom's passing. I played many around of golf with Tom at Countryside and he was always fun to be around. I was there the day the shot the 62 he was overjoyed to say the least. Him and that old Wilson Whale driver......I will always remember that day and him.
Dennis Semones
September 2, 2011
I was very saddened to learn of Tom's death and I am sorry that I was not able to attend either of the services. Tom and I were principals together in Roanoke County and subsequently, we were both in central office. I have very fond memories of Tom and his wonderful personality. He was an inspiration to many and a man of versitile talents. Know that I will keep your family in my dailly thoughts and prayers.
September 2, 2011
I grew up next door to Tom and his family in Peckville, Pa. and enjoy many wonderful memories. My deepest sympathy to Tom's family, can't believe that he has past. He will always be remembered by me and my family as a fun loving neighbor.
Sincerely,
Dale Parry Stracka
Ken Tucker and family
September 2, 2011
Tom will be missed, but his memory is a blessing from God. Fun - "fast" memories on the golf course will be cherished. "Fast" Times on the basketball court - not so much......The entire family is in our prayers. Thank God for Tom Hall.
September 2, 2011
My thoughts and Prayers go out to all the family. The world has lost a caring and wonderful gentleman. He will be missed by all that knew and loved him.
May he Rest In Peace!!
Love to all!
Bootie Bell Chewning - Vinton Va
September 2, 2011
Our children went to Mt View when Mr. Hall was the principal there and they were very fond of him. He was always such a caring person. Deepest sympathy on your loss.
Jeff and Jody Shaver
(Brandon and Kelly)
Dave Atkinson
September 1, 2011
God Bless the Hall Family. Tom will be missed he touched so many lives. He was the principal at Mountain View when both our daughters attended there. Our prayers and thoughts are with the family. David, Pam, Ashley and Lee Ann
Beth Umbarger
September 1, 2011
As a young administrator, Tom spent so much time helping me and making me laugh through the hard times!
Heidi (Swisher) Lewis
September 1, 2011
Such a wonderful man and will not be forgotten. Mr. Hall was one of my principals at Mountain View Elementary School. He followed my brother and I in all of our sports.
Mike Hall
September 1, 2011
Tom was a great adviser on issues. He will be forever in our hearts. He was an awesome Principal.
Bejai Powell
September 1, 2011
"Tom was a fun guy. I had the honor of playing basketball with him every tuesday and thursday and he was known for his no look shots and half court threepointers. He was a great competitor and he will be greatly missed"
LEWIS HARRIS
September 1, 2011
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
GARY CLEMENTS
September 1, 2011
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Bob Davis
August 31, 2011
Tom was one of the most personable and considerate persons that I have ever met. He brought joy to people just by being in their company. May the remembrance of his laughter, story telling and enthusiatic spirit bring peace to his family in their time of sorrow.
Liz Kasza
August 31, 2011
I will certainly miss Tom Hall ~ he always had a kind word, ready smile, and eager to discuss the needs of his students. Since my own kids played golf, he would keep an eye on their progress and offer a generous word of encouragement. He would take every opportunity to brag on his grandchildren as if he was the proudest grandfather in the world. Our prayers are certainly with each of his family! Liz Kasza
August 31, 2011
My prayers are with this family that God will continue to comfort and strengthen you all in the days ahead. I have very fond memories of Tom from our JC Penney days when he was at Virginia Tech and working part time at JC Penney at Tanglewood Mall in the Paint & Hardware Dept. He always had a big smile on his face and so friendly to his co-workers but above all his customers. Then later in years, when I was working at Clearbrook Elementary and we were reunited in friendship and he was Director in Personnel, he treated me with kindness and respect each time he came to our school and we would talk about our times working at JC Penney.......truly a kind, humble, passionate man towards others. He will be greatly missed by so many who knew him.
Sincerely,
Diane Tucker
Henderson, TN.
Dana (Cook) Nester
August 31, 2011
Mr. Hall made a positive impression on the lives of many children. The reason I know, I was one of them! He was my sixth grade teacher (1978-1979) at Mason's Cove. I remember our class presented him with a bar stool, from which he would perch and teach us many lessons. His kind words,love of teaching, and warm smile made him one of my FAVORITE teachers. I will never forget him nor the valuable lessons he taught.
Richard Moon
August 31, 2011
Mr. Tom Hall hired me to work for Roanoke County Schools, and I had the opportunity to work with him at the administrative offices. He was a larger than life personality, it was always a bright spot in my day when I visited his office or he visited mine. He has left a great legacy with Roanoke County Schools and I will miss him. I am so sorry for your loss, he was truly a great man.
Becky Proctor
August 31, 2011
Phyllis and Kari - "Happy" - I cannot imagine the grief you are experiencing at the loss of Tom. I am so sorry for your loss, especially for the grief and sorrow of the children. No one who knew him could help loving and respecting him, especially my father, who was a hard man to impress! Rick and I send our love and prayers to all of you, and we grieve with you.
With love,
Rick and Becky
Brenda Flora Wainwright
August 31, 2011
My heart goes out to the family, and pray for their streight to bare this loss. Tom was principal at Mt. View for both my daughters and was admired and respected by all. He will be missed by the education community and many Mt. View studends and parents.
Dina Rieley
August 31, 2011
I was so sorry to hear of Mr. Hall's passing. I was a substitute teacher at Mountain View while he was principal. He could be gentle, yet firm when needed. I'll always remember him coming into the classrooms and swinging an "imaginary club" while telling one of his golf stories. He helped me get my start in teaching and I am forever grateful. My sympathies go to his family and friends.
Jennifer Vermillion
August 31, 2011
What a wonderful man. Tom offered me my first job as a teacher in Roanoke County ten years ago. I will always be grateful to him for affording me the opportunity. His sincerity, kindness and passion for education made quite an impression on me as a young educator. My deepest condolences to his family.
Sarah Boitnott Fralin
August 31, 2011
Mr.Hall was my principal at Mt.View elementary.He was there the whole time I was as I remember he started in 1985 same time I started kindergarten and he use to say we were special to him because we all started Mt.View the same time, but then again with a great mentor like Mr.Hall I know all his students were special equally!!!! He will be truly missed by all who knew him. Prayers being sent for his family.
Linda Weber
August 31, 2011
Tom was the asistant superintendent when I was the superintendent of Roanoke County Schools. I considered him one of the most empathetic people I had ever known. He was full of jokes and teasing and a great support to me. I will miss him and prayers go out to his dear family.
Shaina Wainwright Stinard
August 31, 2011
I had the pleasure of being a student at Mt. View ES under Mr. Hall in the mid 80's. He was a very caring, professional, respected man. I was in contact with him again when getting my MAT through Hollins and interning for Roanoke Co. schools. He never forgot a student :) I wish him peace and I know he will be greatly missed.
Alisha Smith
August 31, 2011
So sorry to hear about the loss of this wonderful man. I was a student at Mountain View a looooong time ago and he was one of my favorite faces to see around, particularly when he would come in the gym to shoot a little basketball with us. He was a truely genuine and amazing person that will live on in all of the lifes he touched.
Steven Baker
August 31, 2011
I am so sorry for your loss. Tom always made me feel important. Even when I worked behind the counter at Ashley he asked for my opinion about golf. What could I tell a man that shot 62? That's just how he was. Tom always said that once the ball stopped rolling to hit it again. Hit it again Tom.
Special prayers for the children.
Beth Fobare
August 31, 2011
Tom was an amazing, special person and we will all feel his loss for a long time to come. I feel very honored to have known him. Phyllis, Kari, Allison and family please know that you are in our hearts and prayers now and in the days ahead.
Tobie McPhail
August 31, 2011
Tom Hall has always been a true mentor to me. He was the type of person you could go to at anytime for advice, and he would give it to you straight, but with a smile and a kind word. There's not a hallway in our school I can't picture Tom in as he stopped to check on the teachers or took the time to make a child smile. He will truly be missed by the Bonsack Community.
Stephanie Warf
August 31, 2011
I am so sorry for the loss of this wonderful man. He was a kind and gentle soul. I know he will be truly missed by his family, and mostly by his grandchildren. My thoughts and prayers are with the family at this time.
Sherry Siska
August 31, 2011
So very sorry to hear of your loss. He was a kind and generous man. Please know you are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Sincere condolences, Jim and Sherry Siska
Sherri Agee
August 31, 2011
Although I did not know him very well, I am a Roanoke County employee who came in contact with him a few times throughout my career in Roanoke County. He was always kind and had a great sense of humor. My deepest sympathies.
Tom Hall at the 2007 Education Foundation Golf Tournament
Chuck Lionberger
August 31, 2011
I know Tom's already teeing it up with the Lord (and probably giving him a few pointers too). Tom was a man who made you feel at ease no matter the situation. He was a person who really could fill up a room with his energy and humor. I personally will miss Tom and I know everyone at Roanoke County Public Schools has a heavy heart with his passing.
August 31, 2011
I have known Tom for many years and have enjoyed his friendship in a number of settings either in a professional capacity, a friendly conversation, or in a round of golf. Yes, Tom, we will always remember the 62 you posted at Countryside.
I also have fond memories of Tom as a highly intuitive and dedicated school professional who always found the time to say a kind word and lift up the spirits of everyone in his presence. Thank you Tom for the time and what you gave to everyone. Your footprint will always be visible in all the good you accomplished for others. A person as yourself can only be remembered and done so with distinction.
Lewis Romano, Roanoke, VA
Sandra Phillips
August 31, 2011
Dear Family-
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My son attended Mt. View in the regional program for autism. Mr. Hall was so caring and compassionate to all of us and my son, Shawn, loved him. He always had a smile on his face and a greeting for you.
He was receptive to new experiences for the children in my son's class. One time I asked if I could bring a lady out who gave pony rides in carts for his class and not only did he agree to it, he was out there in the middle of us.
I know you will miss him and I hope the memories you and others have will bring you comfort and peace,
August 31, 2011
Tom was truly an admired educator. I shared many happy teaching moments with him at Mason's Cove Elementary and in the Roanoke County School System. My deepest sympathies to his family and friends are expressed at this time.
Cynthia Sheppard (Salem, VA)
Jamie Butler
August 31, 2011
Phyllis & Kari along with Chip and the rest of the family. I have very fond memories of Tom while we worshipped together at Green Ridge several years back. Tom was a delight to know and would always make you laugh when you were down and was always ready to lend that ear to talk to. He will be truly missed; it is our loss but God's gain that Tom is singing and dancing in the streets of Heaven. May God give you all peace and rest during these days.
Love to all of you
Jamie Butler
Troy, Pamela and Nick Cook
August 31, 2011
There are no words that could ever express how sorry I am. Tom was a wonderful man and I'll always remember him with a smile on his face. He could light up a room when he walked in. Kari, Chip and little Sullivans, I love you all and will be lifting you up in prayer. May God give you the strength and you feel his love for you during this very difficult time.
Heather Plunkett
August 31, 2011
Tom Hall was a wonderful man---Ill never forget him hiring me in the spring of 2000....I had taught previously in Roanoke City....he knew I wanted on B/c of growing up in the County....I was so grateful to him. He was such a kind man. Loved his humor. Always had a smile! Even though no longer teaching, I still remember his kindness and admired his love of education/learning. He will be greatly missed. Sincerely, Heather Peyton Plunkett
Kristie Johnson
August 31, 2011
Kari and Chip Sullivan
I am so to hear about the passing of your Dad and Father in law. Tom Hall was at Mountain View Elementary when I was there He will be missed.He was a Very Nice Man and Principal.
He roamed the school for thirty years
Trying to keep things straight
Beneficiary to laughter and tears
Such great memories to relate
A principal’s job is full of stress
For if they really care
So many concerns to address
Futures to prepare
Our children are our tomorrow
A principal knows this well
A role model from which to borrow
In time his work will tell
A principal hates to say goodbye
Memories of students come and gone
To look back and not question why
To prepare so many to move on
R.I.P.Tom Hall Gone But Not Forgotten
brenda[king]trail
August 30, 2011
sorry to hear about mr.hall.he was my 5th grade teacher.he will be missed.
Suzanne Sprenger
August 30, 2011
Tom was just such a wonderful educator. He always had time to stop and speak to me whenever he visited my school. His smile meant so much. My prayers and sympathy go out to each member of the family.
Jamie Cecil
August 30, 2011
No one made me laugh and smile on the golf course like Tom did. He was such a fun person to be around and I will cherish his friendship forever. He will truly be missed!
Angel Caldwell
August 30, 2011
My thoughts and prayers go out to the Hall family.
Brenda Shertz
August 30, 2011
I will always remember Tom coming in the office at Clearbrook Elem. and wanting to know if there were any goodies :) He always had something funny to say. My sympathy goes out to his family at this time. He will be sorely missed.
Linda Scarborough
August 30, 2011
Those who knew Tom will never forget him! I am deeply sorry to learn of his passing. My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.
August 30, 2011
We are so saddened by the news of Tom's passing. He was a special person and he will be missed. Our thoughts are with the family today and in the days ahead. God's Love and Ours, Chuck, Julie, and Kenyon Gladu
Dawn Brown
August 30, 2011
Mr. Hall was my sixth grade teacher and was one of the best teachers I ever had. He was a well liked and respected man. May the spirit of the Holy Ghost be with the Hall family during this time of sorrow.
Sincerely,
Dawn McDaniel Brown
(boog-a-dads sister ;-) )
EDMOND KOROMA
August 30, 2011
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
LARRY GILL
August 30, 2011
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
August 30, 2011
Psalms 91:11
Janet Shaffer
August 30, 2011
So sorry for your loss! He always walked through our schools with a smile! He will be greatly missed!!
August 30, 2011
Tom was truly a special person. God broke the mold after he created Tom. He will always hold a special place in my memories.. He was so kind to me while he was principal at Mt. View. He will be sadly missed.
DAVID JOINER SR.
August 30, 2011
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Jessica Williams
August 30, 2011
So sorry to hear about Mr. Hall! I will always remember his smiling face walking through the halls at Mountain View way back when he was my principle there. Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers!
CHARLENE SMITH
August 30, 2011
CARRIE, CHIP AND CHILDREN,
I 'M SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS. OVER THE YEARS CARRIE WHEN YOU AND RUSSELL WERE SMALL WE WERE TOGETHER ALOT. TOM WAS ALWAYS THE CARING DAD AND OUR FAMILIES SPENT ALOT OF TIME TOGETHER AT THE LAKE AND AT JOHN'S AND KATE'S. MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOUR AT THIS TIME. IF WE CAN DO ANYTHING PLEASE LET US KNOW.
LOVE CHARLENE & FAMILY
Gale Strutt
August 30, 2011
I am so sorry for your loss of Tom. He was special to so many people. Our prayers are with your family.
Sarah Strutt Quesenberry
August 30, 2011
We are so sorry to hear about Tom. You all are such a special family to us. All of you are in our prayers.
Amy Johnson
August 30, 2011
My thoughts and deepest sympathy are with the family of Tom Hall. He was a beloved person in the Roanoke County school system. He had a wonderful sense of humor, a positive good nature, and was always smiling. He brought a sense of happiness and enthusiasm whenever he entered a building. He will be greatly missed by all that knew him. I am praying that God surrounds his family and loved ones with peace and comfort as the grieve.
Sarah Strutt Quesenberry
August 30, 2011
We are so sorry to hear about Tom, all of you are in our prayers.
August 30, 2011
May the lord bless the family from Edrow Patricia & Brady from William Byrd Middle
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