Gladys R. Hall

Gladys R. Hall, 88, of Green Cove Springs, Florida, passed away April 10, 2021, at home.

Gladys Risley Hall entered this world at the birthing home of Mrs. Howe in Manchester, CT, July 4^th, 1932. An appropriate birthday for such a feisty, independent lady! Her parents are John and Winifred (Cooley) Risley.  There were three sisters, Marion, Dot, and Polly, and one brother, Dick, who all predeceased her.

Gladys was a self- proclaimed tomboy and grew up with lots of room to indulge her love of the outdoors across from Risley Reservoir.  Along with her sister Dot, she donated a parcel of the reservoir property to the Manchester Land Trust who have since opened this beautiful property to allow public enjoyment. 

In 1955, Gladys met Norman Hall at the Crystal Lake Ballroom.  He asked her to go to church with him on their first date.  She knew at that moment he was the man she would marry.  They married and had 5 children together, Linda Hall, Cindy VanLeuven, Steven Hall, Clifford Hall and JoAnn Meyer.    Norman had three children which Gladys always counted and cared for as her own, Vicki Gee, Jeffrey and Kenneth Hall.  Each of their children were profoundly loved. Gladys was predeceased by her beloved husband Norman and her daughter Linda in 2018.

In 1966, Norman began New England Mechanical Services, Inc. (NEMSI) in the basement of the family home with Gladys by his side to make a significant contribution to the success of this endeavor.

Over the years, Gladys and Norman were able to travel to various countries around the world.  But Maine, where Norman was from, was always the most beloved place to spend their time.  Their home in Maine later became the hub of many joyous family gatherings. 

Gladys and Norman donated a home in Belfast Maine to Child Evangelism Fellowship.  This gift honored their love of children and their faith.

In the 1990s, they sold NEMSI and their family home in Connecticut, and moved to Florida.  They attended Black Pond Baptist church.  Faith remained a beacon in their lives and their hearts all their days.

The family will receive friends from 3pm – 4pm, Friday April 16, 2021 at Black Pond Baptist Church Middleburg, FL. Funeral services to follow at 4pm with Rev. Charlie Hunt officiating. Graveside services will be held Saturday July 3, 2021 at Hillside Cemetery, Machiasport, Maine.