Our Members Who Have Transferred to Post Everlasting
John Hall
It is with much sadness that we have to announce that Post Member John Hall has passed away.
John was much loved by the members of our Post. Always one with a smile for everyone and always one to volunteer to assist with our efforts to serve our fellow veterans.
John James Hall
August 23, 1943 – March 14, 2025
John James Hall, born on August 23, 1943, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, passed away peacefully on March 14, 2025, at the age of 81 in Elk Grove with his family at his side. The eldest of nine children, John, as the big brother, grew up with a deep sense of family, hard work, and dedication—values that guided him throughout his life.
On March 26, 1972, John married Betty Briggs in Elk Grove, California. Together, they shared 53 years of love, laughter, and unwavering support. John was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his beloved wife Betty, daughter Kristi L. Donelli, and his cherished grandchildren Addison Hall, Giovanni Donelli, Melia Charles, and Hazel Tharp. He is also survived by his siblings and extended family, all of whom will forever carry his memory in their hearts. His son, SFC Bryan E. Hall pre-deceased him in Iraq in April 2009.
John served in the United States Air Force from 1962 to 1966, a proud veteran who demonstrated a lifelong commitment to his country and community. He was a life member of Post 55 American Legion, and his dedication as the Post’s representative to veterans at CRC & Folsom Lake College’s Veterans Center remained a constant.
In 2022, John was honored as Elk Grove Citizen of the Year, a well-deserved recognition of his service and impact on the community. John was a supporter of the Elk Grove Food Bank and numerous other community non-profit events as well as being a coach to youth football and softball. Whether in his career, volunteer work, or time spent with family, John always led with moderation, generosity, and friendship.
He was a man of many passions. John loved fishing, especially with his grandson Giovanni, creating countless memories on the water. He also adored visiting his granddaughters, Addison, Melia and Hazel, cherishing the time spent with them. A passionate sports fan, John was a huge Oregon Ducks supporter, and his love for the team was something he shared with his family, especially during the big games. To celebrate his love of the Ducks, please join us in wearing green and yellow at the Celebration of Life.
John’s Celebration of Life will be held at the Cypress Missionary Babtist Church, 7933 Bradshaw Road, Sacramento, California on May 24th at 2:00 pm. His friends and family will remember John with love and joy, not with sadness. John was a man with a smile on his face for all who knew him. We all know that we were blessed to be in John’s circle of love.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Elk Grove Food Bank in his honor.