Marie Teresa Hall

1930 - 2024

Marie Teresa (Ackel) Hall, a resident of San Mateo for nearly 60 years, has passed into God's arms from complications of dementia. She deeply touched generations through her faith, wisdom, curiosity, and common sense ("they called me Thomas Payne in high school," as she often proudly said). She will also be remembered for her empathy, humor, trustworthiness, and a love of travel, children and animals.

Marie, the youngest of four children, was born in Gloversville, New York to Lebanese American parents. She graduated from Lawrence High School in 1948 and attended Susquehanna College and Ohio-Wesleyan University, each for one year, majoring in Journalism.

Following her sister's career path, she put her outgoing personality to use as a flight attendant for Eastern and United Airlines. On June 6, 1958, serving a flight bound for San Francisco, she met a young, charismatic salesman named Gordon Hall, whom she would marry in 1960. Marie spent the next two decades as a tour guide for Rod McLellan and United Airlines and as a loving parent. She joined Visa in 1984 as receptionist to the CEO, retiring in 1995.

Marie is survived by her son John Hall, daughter in law Michelle Atno-Hall, and her beloved granddaughters Elizabeth Hall and Emily Hall, all of Redwood Shores, CA.

On October 19, from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., a public viewing will be held at Sneider & Sullivan funeral home, 977 El Camino Real, San Mateo. A mass in her honor will take place at 1:00 p.m. at St. Gregory's Church, 2715 Hacienda Street, San Mateo. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the American Association for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA.org/donate" target="_blank">ASPCA.org/donate).