Harvey Gene Hall, Sr., 81 of Magnolia, passed away Sept. 20. Bro. Harvey was an active member of Macedonia Baptist Church and a layman whose vision helped launch what became the BMA of Arkansas Youth Department. When he was elected as the state youth promoter/coordinator in 1984, he traveled the state organizing leaders, building communication among churches and associations and coordinating retreats, conferences and fellowships. He later led the department’s statewide Prayer Campaign for youth ministry and the Encounter conference.
Dr. Tom Mitchell, in an article in the Feb. 12, 2020 Baptist Trumpet, when sharing about the start of Arkansas’ Youth Department, stated it was established because of the “vision of a layman, Harvey Hall. He saw a need, then set himself to meeting that need.”
Bro. Harvey also invested deeply in Daniel Springs Camp by fundraising for cabin renovations and canteen upgrades, recruiting partners and even helping replace bridges on the grounds.
Before his ministry work, he served 21 years in the United States Navy (1962–1983), retiring as a senior chief. His last decade in the Navy centered on counseling. A tireless encourager, he directed youth in several congregations, coordinated associational youth ministries and never stopped cheering on students, leaders and pastors.
In mid-life, the Lord wrote a new chapter in his testimony. Though long involved in church work, Bro. Harvey publicly shared in the April 11, 2007 Baptist Trumpet that he had come under conviction and trusted Christ personally, rejoicing that “if I were to die today, I would spend eternity in Heaven with Jesus” — a confession he went on to share widely so others might be saved.
He is survived by his son, Robert (Susan) Hall of Macedonia; the mother of his children, Patrica Dodson; his sister, Brenda Lindsey of El Dorado; seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
Funeral services are scheduled for Friday, Sept. 26, at 11 a.m. at Macedonia Baptist Church (Magnolia), with Joe Owens officiating. Interment with military honors will follow at Macedonia Cemetery under the direction of Lewis Funeral Home of Magnolia (lewisfuneralhome.biz).
Memorials may be made to Macedonia Baptist Church, 760 Hwy. 160, Magnolia, Ark. 71753.
