Hall, Emma L.

Emma Louise Hall of Plano, Texas was 89 years young when she passed away Saturday, October 29, 2016.  Born in the Woodman’s Hall in Tecula, Texas on June 28, 1927, she was the 8th of 9 children.  She is preceded in death by her Husband, Doyle W. Hall; Children: Linda Louise and Sally Kay; Parents Everett W. and Susie R. Clark; Brothers: Howard Clark, Edsel Clark, Charles Clark; Sisters: Wilma Bolton, Nawasa Hamilton, Jane Freeze. Survived by son Hal Mark and wife Jill Hall of Mansfield, Texas, daughter Becky and husband Van Freeman of Flower Mound, Texas, daughter Bonny and husband Michael Scott of Lander, Wyoming, daughter Mary Jan Cooper of Allen, Texas; Sisters: Mary Shamblin of Bullard, Texas, Martha Jean and husband James Gray of Colleyville, Texas; Grandchildren: Katy Hall, Colleen Hall, JoAnna Rozier, Wesley Hall, Megan Freeman Englefield, Cortney Freeman, Matthew Knowles, Travis Scott, Jeremy Scott, Angela Jolley, Sarah Hastings, Phillip Scott, Emma Scott, Lauren Cooper, Ryan Cooper and Kyndahl Cooper;  21 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. She graduated Tecula High School and then attended Business School in Tyler, Texas. While enjoying a Pineapple Shake one afternoon at the local soda shop, she met her future husband, Doyle W. Hall.  They married and had six children. Eventually they ended up in Dallas where she took a position with Merrill Lynch. With an excellent work ethic and sharp mind, she learned the Municipal Bond business and was known for her honesty, integrity, problem solving, and willingness to assist others. While participating in the Women’s Municipal Bond Club of Dallas, she was pressured to be the first “employment contact” for women looking to make a job change.  She really didn’t want to do it, however reluctantly accepted.  At the time, if a boss found out that one of “his girls” had talked with another company, they were fired.  This was a new initiative to allow the women in municipal bond departments the opportunity to interview with a higher level of security since there would be a person paving the road of confidentiality with the employers. Later she found out her selection was because she worked for Merrill Lynch and if anyone could get away with it, it would be someone from the largest securities firm in the world with all the management egos above her.  It was a success as she mentored women in how to interview to achieve the highest level of income for their families.  Mom continued assisting women with job changes for many years.  She knew that “a rising tide raises all ships”, and was determined to do her part to raise that tide for all working women. Mom blazed the trail by being one of the first women in Dallas to buck the “good ole boy” network and earn her Series 7 securities license.  While all the men were sent to New York for training and testing, which a good portion didn’t pass the first time, Mom studied the material through a correspondence course at home, at night, while raising 4 young children alone. She showed us that even when the odds are against us, and we are being told that it can’t be done, we can still achieve our dreams with focus, determination and hard work. Throughout her career she worked for multiple securities firms as VP of Municipal Bonds including First Boston, Solomon Smith Barney, Shearson American Express.  She guided many brokers over the years with her approachable, cheerful, encouraging attitude and was dearly loved and respected. For several years, Mom and her good friend, Edwina, chartered bus trips to Black Eyed Pea Festivals, Louisiana Horse Races, and trips to Las Vegas.  A great way to create extra income while having fun.  What A Good Time It Was!! Her grandchildren remember her for her Adventures.  A day beginning with Vacation Bible School most certainly would end up with Cici’s Pizza for lunch!  Or a trip on the train to Ft. Worth, the Reunion Tower “ball”, the Uptown Trolley, and the list goes on.  Exploring the city, eating great kid food….  Days with Grandma were the best! We kids know Mom as the “Rock”, the “Pivot Point” of our family.  Her ability to overcome adversity and not only survive, but continue to strive for a better life for us, instilled a work ethic and determination that have served us well.  She has always believed in us even when we didn’t believe in ourselves.  Her love, passion, and vision are inspirational.  We are so blessed to have her as our Mom! Memorial service will be held on Friday, November 11, 2016, at 11:00 a.m. at the First Baptist Church Chapel, 1300 E. 15^th St., Plano, Texas.  A gift of flowers would be gladly received by the family as Emma loved their beauty. Emma also supported the Christian Broadcasting Network if you would like to consider making a memorial donation in her memory.   Arrangements are under the direction of: ARIA Cremation Service & Funeral Home 19310 Preston Road, Dallas, Texas 75252 214-306-6700