Sanford Allen Hall, known affectionately as Allen by his friends and family, passed away peacefully on November 24, 2024, in Channelview, Texas, just two days before what would have been his 88th birthday. Born on November 26, 1936, at Heights Hospital in Houston, Texas, to Sanford and Ethel Hall.

Allen graduated from Aldine High School in 1954. He continued his education at Sam Houston State University. Not only did he earn his Bachelor of Science Degree on January 24, 1959, he completed his Master of Education Degree on August 28, 1959. During his college days, he crossed paths with Bernie Lynn, the love of his life. He and Bernie Lynn, both sharing a passion for rodeo, met at a Rodeo Club meeting at SHSU, a fitting backdrop for a lifetime of shared interests. They were united in marriage on August 31, 1957, and together they shared 65 years of unwavering love.

Allen began his career as an elementary school teacher and principal in Northeast Houston, dedicating four years to shaping young minds before moving on to become an Agriculture Teacher at Channelview ISD in 1964. When Allen took over as the Agriculture Teacher in Channelview, the FFA Fair was held in the high school parking lot. He helped negotiate an agreement with the property owner of some land on Bear Bayou to house the fair each year. That property was eventually donated to the YMCA. His passion and commitment to vocational education were evident as he was promoted to the position of Director of Vocational Programs in 1974. He was instrumental in securing land and construction of a new fairground facility on Wood Dr. In 1984, the first FFA Fair was held in the new grounds. He was honored to have the fairgrounds named and dedicated as the “Allen Hall Fairgrounds”. Also in 1984, he was given the additional role of Director of Transportation, showcasing his versatile talents and dedication to the educational field. After 38 years of service, he retired from Channelview ISD on May 28, 1998, leaving behind a legacy of influence and inspiration.

Allen grew up with a deep appreciation for the land and the outdoors, a sentiment that would shape much of his life's work and passions. Allen's love for agriculture stemmed from his upbringing on a farm and his time as a steer wrestler in rodeos. He loved spending his time outside in the garage “tinkering”, always keeping his hands and mind busy. His fair, tough, and opinionated nature was respected by all who knew him.

Throughout his life, Allen was actively involved in his community. He was a member of the YMCA, the Lions Club, and he served on the district water board, where he was a past president. His contributions to these organizations were not just in title but in the time, energy, and passion he invested in them. During his tenure at CISD, Allen received many accolades inside and outside of the district. In 1980 he was named Outstanding Citizen for Youth Development by the Channelview Lion’s Club. In 1982, he served as the State Director for Vocational Administrators and Supervisors Association. In 1992, he was honored as the Outstanding Gulf Coast Vocational Ancillary Award for Dedicated Service. In 1988-89 and 1992-93 he was named the Outstanding Educational Administrator by the Gulf Coast Administrators and Supervisors Association. In 1995, Allen received the Community Builders Award from the C.A. Fortner Masonic Lodge 1304. This is the highest award given by Masons to a Non-Mason. In the 47-year history of the lodge, Allen was the first man to receive this honor. Allen's interests were as vast as his heart. His commitment to the community and his love for the land were evident in the way he lived his life, always striving to make a positive impact on those around him.

On a personal side of Allen, he was the fairest person you could meet. He had a heart as big as he was. He loved to give hugs and he never failed to give you his opinion, good or bad, and whether you wanted to hear it or not! He always prefaced it by saying, “You may not want to hear this but I’m gonna tell you anyways”. And no matter what, before he walked away, he always offered a handshake or a hug. He was one of the toughest, fair and loving people all wrapped up in one.

Allen now joins the company of his family who have predeceased him, including his parents, Sanford and Ethel Hall; his beloved wife of 65 years, Bernie Lynn Hall; his treasured grandchildren, Cody Hall and Maddie Hall; his dear granddaughter-in-law, Colby Jacks Hall; and his sister, Sandra Rhodes. Allen is survived by his children, Doug Hall and his wife Kayla, Clay Hall and his wife Pam, and Spence Hall and his wife Tammy. His legacy continues through his four grandchildren, Brittany Hall and her partner Justin Vaughan, Casey Hall, Cooper Hall and his wife Ashley, and Calli Harrington and her husband Trevor. He is also survived by his five great-grandchildren Kira Hall, Mya Hall, Wyatt Hall, Dawson Harrington, and soon-to-arrive Jacks Hall. He is also survived by his sister Janet Green and her husband Bill, as well as nieces and nephews. All are a testament to his enduring influence and love. Allen's extended family of friends, spanning over 60 years, held a special place in his heart, as he did in theirs.

To join the family for a time of remembrance, there will be a visitation at Carter-Conley Funeral Home on Thursday, December 5, 2024, in the chapel from 5:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. Funeral services for Allen will be held on Friday, December 6, 2024 at 12:00 P.M. in the chapel of Carter-Conley Funeral Home and will be officiated by Pastor Gene Summers. Graveside services will be at 2:00 PM at Brookside Memorial Park Cemetery, 13747 Eastex Freeway, Houston, TX 77039 under the direction of Carter-Conley Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made to Channelview FFA. The checks should be made out to Channelview FFA and mailed to:

Channelview FFA

c/o Allen Hall Scholarship

1100 Sheldon Road

Channelview, TX 77530

Please add “In Memory of Allen Hall” on the memo line in order to direct the funds to the correct account.