“John” Ellie M. Hall
John” Ellie M. Hall, age 74, of Wilmar Villa in Quincy, Il died on Saturday, November 18, 2017 at 2:15 AM in his home. He was born on August 23, 1943 in Jackson, Tennessee, the son of Melvin & Ruby (Debose) Hall. He eloped with his high school sweetheart Marion Gordon on December 19, 1960 in Blairsville, GA. Then returning to Quincy to have a wedding mass on March 10, 1961 in St. Francis Catholic Church which pleased each of their mothers. Marion survives.
He was of the Catholic Faith.
After graduating from St. Mary’s High School in Colorado Springs, CO. He then attended Tennessee State University in Nashville, TN and the University of Colorado in Colorado Springs. Mr. Hall worked at Gates Radio in Quincy for 2 years as a clerk. He then followed his lifelong passion for photography. Ellie received his first camera from his mother, while living in Germany at the age of 6. He never stopped taking photos until the last month of his life. Ellie began his career in photo journalism in Colorado Springs at the Colorado Springs Sun as a staff photographer. And then to the Gazette Telegraph in Colorado Springs as a staff photographer. He worked, mentored and diversified many photo departments and newsrooms for women and minorities at numerous Pulitzer Prize and award-winning newspapers. His careers include: Staff photographer, Photo Editor, then Managing editor photo/art department at the Dallas Times Herald in Dallas, TX. Later Managing Photo/Art Department at the Oregonian in Portland, OR. Managing Editor/Art Department for the Sun Sentinel in Fort Lauderdale, FL. Ellie ended his career of 41 years in journalism as the Assistant Bureau Chief photo/Director of State Department for the Associated Press in Washington, D.C.
In addition to his wife, he is also survived by:
One Son: Ellie Melvin Hall, Jr. and his wife Cheryl of Naperville, Il.
Ten Grandchildren,
Twelve Great Grandchildren,
A sister-in-law, Charlene Willis of Denver, CO
A special niece, Vanessa Palmer and two great nieces, Chloe and Chanel who gave nursing and loving care until the end.
Other numerous nieces, nephews and cousins also survive.
John was preceded in death by his parents, Three sons, Johnathan Hall, Jeffrey “Jake” Hall and Julian Hall, a sister Laurania Hall, and One Great Grandson, Julian Keith Hall, Jr.
The family wishes to give special thanks to the nurses and therapist at Blessing Hospital, St. Vincent’s Home, the Unity Point at Home Team and Unity Point Hospice.
Cremation rites have been accorded. A Celebration of John’s Life will be held at a later date in the Florida Keys. The Duker & Haugh Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
Some of the hardest laughs I’ve ever laughed were on assignment with John, often talking about family on plane rides to and from. Took me to eat best cabrito in Juarez – when I’d never heard of the stuff. He was the ultimate pro to a greenhorn like me. Thought of John often and fondly over the years. Condolences to all.
Condolences to the Hall family.
Ellie will be missed greatly!!
As a young reporter in the early 1980s, I was privileged to spend time working with John on stories for the Dallas Times Herald. He was a brilliant photographer and generous teacher about life and about race. He helped this well-intentioned white girl see through a different lens. I’m grateful and am a better human and journalist because of him.
Sorry to hear the news, our condolences to Hall family. John was a wonderful to work with and a great individual. Our thoughts and prayers from our family to your. Sincerely, Pablo & Jessica
A beautiful tribute to a life well-lived. We’re all honored to know both John and Marion. May he rest In peace.
Rest in peace, John.
Marion, So sorry to hear of the death of your husband. I will keep you and your family in my prayers.
John did more to spread good will, love and concern, fairness, excellence, humor and friendship than most I’ve known in all my life. He was an unusually good journalist, man, husband, father and friend. Love to you, Marion.
Condolences to the Hall family. I knew John from working with him from Miami and attending many AP events around the U.S. Fine man, great photographer and mentor.
We will truly miss Uncle Ellie. His quick wit and humor was always welcomed. He will need to wait till I join him for our next 100 yard dash race at the old Q-Stadium!
With prayers, love and sympathy to Aunt Marion from Gordon C. Willis and Family.