My story
WOMAN OF GOD • DEVOTED WIFE • LOVING MOTHER AND GRANDMOTHER SUPPORTIVE SISTER • AFFECTIONATE AUNT • FAITHFUL SERVANT
"Do The Best You Can" became my motto! This simple but powerful message encouraged me so much, especially when times got tough. And surprisingly, it has encouraged so many others!
Born on December 18, 1951, to teenage parents, Alonzo Clarence “AC” Shaw and Myrtle Ellis Shaw, I was the middle child with four other siblings: Curtis "Curt", Deloris "Sista", Otto Clarence "Bub", and Gwen "Fat". My image and likeness were so much like my paternal grandmother Dora Bell that I was named after her. I learned a lot from her as she lived with us throughout my early childhood years. Through the years, I was fondly called Faulk, DoMae, Momma Dora, Ma, and Grandma.
Our family extended far beyond the little white house on the hill that I grew up in, but all along "The Spur." It was a community filled with LOVE and Christian values where everybody was considered family, blood or not. Although I was pretty quiet, I enjoyed spending time with friends and family. We didn't have much, but we looked out for each other and created so many wonderful memories! I met some of my best friends, permanently lost my two front teeth in a game of family baseball, accepted the Lord as my personal Savior, and started working in the church at the tender age of fourteen. Nelson Chapel M.B. Church was my second home. Under the leadership of great Pastors like Rev. Jessie Rudd, I grew tremendously in my faith and as a church Administrator. Growing up on "The Spur" was an absolute joy!
I attended grammar school at Pope Chapel and then went on into the Paton Lane School System. They say I was very popular in school but I'm not so sure about that because I was still pretty quiet. I guess it was because I was in the middle of everything and was always actively involved. One of the highlights of my high school days was performing as a majorette in the Paton Lane Tiger Marching Band. Those were the days! After graduating high school class of 1972, I went off to Coahoma Community College and quickly realized that college life was not for me. So, I came home, went straight into the workforce, and continued in it over the next thirty years. During this time, more friendships were created and more opportunities to share love took place at each of the factories where I worked,
especially at Parker Hannifin. I had a heart for people and learned to see the good in them no matter their circumstance.
In early 1977, I was invited on a blind double date by my best friend Emma and her husband Jerry. Nervous and reluctant was an understatement as I didn't expect to meet my husband, Virgil” Teddy” Hall Jr. I didn't think he was my type at all, but after only six months of dating, we were married. On September 24, 1977, we stood before God with our parents and those same good friends that introduced us committing ourselves in Holy Matrimony to one another.
This loving union produced two beautiful daughters, LaKeisha (Micheal) Hall-King and Kyra (Al) Hall-Turner. They were my pride and joy! I poured my heart and soul into them and likewise into my grandchildren - Jordyn, Alex, and Ellis. I strived to live by the WORD of God and I encouraged my family to do the same. If there ever was a woman I wanted to emulate, it was the Proverbs 31 Woman.
Not only did I honor God by serving my family, co-workers, and friends, but also my community. I served as Nelson Chapel Church Clerk for 48 years, as Marshall of Victory Star #99 Order of Eastern Star, as a Parent Advisor and Mentor for the Panola County Youth Choir, as Secretary of the Sardis District Association Women's Auxiliary, and as a Food Share Volunteer until my health would not allow.
My life's purpose and earnest commitment was to honor God in everything, and I do believe, He was pleased! "Well done, thy good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things: enter into the joy of thy Lord."
Matthew 24:23
Awaiting my heavenly arrival with open arms were my loving parents, Alonzo Clarence Shaw, and Myrtle Ellis Shaw; my brother and sister, Otto “Bub” Shaw and Delorise Shaw; my caring in laws; Mr. Virgil Hall, Sr. and Mattie Bell Vance Hall. As well as my paternal and maternal grandparents.
I leave my love and memories to be forever cherished by my devoted husband, Virgil Hall, Jr.; my loving and dedicated daughters, Lakeisha Virgnette (Michael) and Kyra Keon ( AL) ; my grandchildren, Jordyn Alyse Turner , Alex Jay Turner, and Ellis Dean Turner; my siblings, Curtis Shaw and Gwen Shaw; my niece-daughter and great-niece, Brandis Shaw and Dawson Washington; my godchildren, Victor McDowell, Jr., Freddrick Wright, Jr, and Journi Smith; my aunts, Maragret (James) Cosby, Rose Hamilton, Helen Ellis, Bertha (Ronnie) Bobo, Gladys Ellis, Nettie Ellis ; my uncle, Jerry Hentz; my brother in law, Carey Byrd and sister in law, Vera Hall; and a host of family and friends.
Although my physical presence is gone, my consistent love for God and my family will live within each of you. Please hold my favorite scripture in your heart …And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. ~Romans 8:28 KJV
O RDER OF SERVICE
Mrs. DORA MAE HALL
Service Date: Sunday, November 10, 2024| Service Time: 1:00PM NELSONCHAPELMISSIONARYBAPTISTCHURCH
216 Nelson Spur Rd Ext, Pope, Mississippi 38658
Pastor Melvin Ellis, Agenda Guide ◊
Reverend Fred I. Butts, Officiating
PRELUDE | PROCESSIONAL
Musical SELECTION
OLD TESTAMENT SCRIPTURE
NEW TESTAMENT SCRIPTURE
PRAYER OF CONSOLATION
Musical SELECTION
Tributes:
As a Friend and Co- worker
As a Mother in Love
As a Community Servant
Resolution & Acknowledgements
Words of Comfort
Musical SELECTION
Eulogy
CLOSING PRAYER
Soft Music
Nelson Chapel Baptist Church Choir “Waiting on Jesus”
Reverend Keri Henson
Nelson Chapel MB Church
Pastor Carl Brown
Shiloh M. B. Church
Reverend Dr. Nehemiah Martin
Pope Chapel AME Zion Church
Nelson Chapel Baptist Church Choir ” I Shall Wear A Crown”
Mrs. Annie Bob Readus
Al Turner and Rev. Michael King
Rev. Dr. Zannie Leland, Jr.
Macedonia MB Church
Yolanda Shegog Wright
LaKeisha King & Kyra Turner
Pastor Larry Ware
Bethlehem MB Church
Nelson Chapel Baptist Church Choir
Reverend Fred Ira Butts
Reverend Theaudry Hall
RECESSIONAL Cooley’s Mortuary, Incorporated
*Remains will not be viewed after the Eulogy.
IfYouCouldSeeMeNow
If you could see me now, you wouldn't shed a tear, though you may not understand why I'm no longer here, Remember my spirit, that's the real me. I'm still very much alive, oh, if you could only see! I've behold our Father's face. I've touched my savior's hand. The angels all rejoiced as I entered the Promise Land. Beyond the gates of pearl, I walk on golden streets, I've touched the walls of jasper, dipped my foot in the crystal sea. The beauty is beyond words, nothing can compare. I've even seen your mansion, someday I will meet you there. Allow Jesus to be your guide, His word will show you the way. So, please, don't cry! We will meet again someday!
~DoraMae
Forever in My Heart
My dearest love, my heart is filled with sorrow, As I try to process that you’re no longer here with me. It’s hard to believe that you’ve passed away, But I know I must face this grief every single day. I remember the day we met, the very first time, I knew instantly you were meant to be mine We shared so many moments, laughs, and tears, Plain and simple, we had some very great years. We fought through the tough times, hand in hand. Your love was so strong, I knew you’d always understand. You were my rock, my pillar, my everything. My world feels so empty without you You’ll always hold a special place in my heart, I’ll never forget you, even though we are apart. You fought with all you might, until the very end and now, you’re no longer suffering. You left me with so many beautiful memories and together, we have had so many victories, I know you’ll be watching over me; your undying love will be surrounding me. So, my beloved wife, as I say goodbye, I’ll treasure every memory we’ve ever made and keep them close forever, our love will never fade. While I know I’ll mourn you for the rest of my life I also know that you are now free from any strife. I’ll hold your memory deep within my soul, you’ve left us behind, but I know you’re whole. I love you now, and always will. I’ll forever cherish the love we shared. To live life fully, to love unconditionally, you’ve taught me that life can be so beautiful and lovely. I know that you’re in a peaceful place and we’ll meet again someday, face to face. So, my dear wife, my partner, my mate, I’ll miss you every day but know that isn’t the end.
Our love will live on until the very end.
Love,Virgil
A Mother's Love is like no other....
It teaches and it corrects. It nurtures and it disciplines. It soothes and it calms. It leads and it guides. It covers and it protects. It's the truest illustration of God's great love and we're so thankful to have experienced it, right here on earth! Mama, you have left a tremendous legacy for us to uphold. Your faith and trust in God was strong. Your tolerance and patience, always high. You had such a unique way with people and your words spoke peace in the midst of every storm. You were gentle but strong, and you always stood for what was right. You were gracious, humble, and didn't complain at all. You served wholeheartedly, loved so deeply, and your faith never wavered. Mama, what an example you have left! So, while you're sleeping and we're still awake, these examples we'll definitely take. We'll honor your memory by the life we live, making sure your legacy remains, down through the years.
We LOVE You Mama! ~-Keisha&Kyra
"And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28
My Grandma
My Grandma was the kindest person you'll ever meet. She had the biggest heart and treated everyone like her family. My mom says that she was strict on her and Auntie Keisha but treated us like we could do no wrong. I guess this was true in a sense, her way of showing a grandma's love. Grandma, you are loved and will truly be missed. I'll miss you asking about my grades and how I'm doing in school. I'll miss the times where we'd sit together and watch movies on your favorite channel, the Hallmark channel. I'll forever miss the times we played outside together and building forts inside with blankets and chairs. I knew you were getting older and started to come across health issues, but I didn't fully understand the severity of your situation until a couple of weeks ago - when we came to see you in the hospital. Even though this is a devastating occasion, I will forever thank God for healing you and making you a new home in his kingdom. I love you Grandma and will continue to think about you until we meet again.
God's Garden
Good looked around His garden and found an empty place. Then He looked down upon the earth and saw your tired face. He put his arms around you and lifted you to rest. God's Garden must be beautiful. He always takes the best. He knew you were in pain, that it was getting tough. He knew you wouldn't get well on earth, the road was getting rough, and the hills were hard to climb. So, he closed your weary eyes and whispered "peace be thine. "It breaks my heart to lose you, but you didn't go alone, A part of us went with you, the day God called you home.
-JordynAlyse Dear Grandma,
-EllisDean
The best person and kindest heart; was you! You were always there with me, to play puzzles and do word searches together. I'll always remember you letting me get sips of your coffee even though I really wasn't supposed to have any. I’ll miss you Grandma and will always love you.
-AlexJay
OUR SISTER
So, "Dora Mae" or "Sister" as Curt would so lovingly say. It has come time for us to say goodbye. You've always been a woman of few words with a strong presence. We could not have asked for a better sister. It would be an understatement to say that you would give the shirt off your back because you have given that and so much more. Your heart was a magnet for giving, forgiving, and turning any situation into an opportunity to help someone. You were always so beautiful, inside and out. What we loved most is that you always saw the best in everybody and that never wavered. Thank you for being such a good aunt to my daughter and granddaughter. We've had this conversation before, and I'm so glad we did. Curt will miss seeing you every day. I'm dreading weekends and Sundays without you, but know I that if you were here, you would say with conviction, "well fat, do the best you can." Sister, you've fought a good fight these past 2 years, never complained but pressed down stronger in your faith. The team is all there now; you, Polly and Emma. You and Polly are gone but we realize your earthly work is done and your Kingdom work has just begun. We will love you always.
My Guiding Light
Throughout my childhood, In moments big and small, You were always there, To catch me when I'd fall.
Your words were full of wisdom, Your voice a soothing guide. With gentle hands, you'd lift me up, And comfort me when I cried.
Curtis&Gwen
Your love is unconditional, And never does it wane.
In times of joy or sorrow, You ease away the strain.
My guiding light, my godmother, Through thick and through the thin. Your love has shaped me into The person I am within.
Love,Junior
ACTIVE PALLBEARERS
Jamichael Jones
Christopher Burnette
Fredrick Wright, Jr.
Jerrick
Victor McDowell, Jr.
HONORARY PALLBEARERS
Annie Bob Readus
Linda Kimmons
Lois Keys
Rosie Burnell Brooks
Pamela Fondren Brenda Henderson
Annie
Maragret Ellis
FLOWER BEARERS
Valerie Morgan
Cousins, Nieces, Bonus Daughters and Sardis District Women Auxiliary
Thank You!
The family of Mrs. Dora Mae Hall acknowledges every act of kindness extended during this time of sorrow. We have been abundantly blessed by so many friends and loved ones showering us with words of comfort and encouragement. Words can never express our sincere gratitude and appreciation. It is our prayer that God continues to bestow his bountiful blessings upon you and keep you forever in his care. Special thanks to Patrica Morris, Natasha Pope, Faye Hughes, Nettie Ellis, Maragret Inez Ellis, Margaret Cosby, Earlene Ellis, Danielle Reese, Callie Barker, Ashley Thompson, FNP, Hillary Lott, FNP, Gentiva Hospice, Accent Home Health, Pope Chapel AME Zion Church and Nelson Chapel MB Church Family.
Committal Service
Nelson – Pope Chapel Cemetery, Nelson Spur Rd, Pope, MS
REPAST
Nelson Chapel Missionary Baptist Church Fellowship Hall
