Betty Jane Hall, 91, of Middletown, Delaware, passed away from cancer December 19, 2023, at home with her family by her side. She was preceded in death by her brother Ed Bressell, and her sons Michael and Philip Hall. She is survived by her loving husband Peter Hall, her sister Donna and brother in law Otto Menzen, her children Ann Hall and Sarah and husband Mark Clapp, and daughter-in- law Maria Dean, along with seven grandchildren, eight great grandchildren, and a host of beloved nephews and nieces.
She was born to Philip and Helen Elizabeth “Betty” Bressell in Seminole, Oklahoma, in 1932. She obtained her Registered Nurse (RN) certification from Burlington Nursing School in Burlington, Iowa in 1952 and proudly worked as a nurse until soon after she married Peter in 1956. She also loved working as a children’s librarian at the Emmaus Public Library. Betty was an active member of several Episcopal churches, and could often be found in the kitchen of Saint Anne’s of Middletown serving her fellow parishioners and sneaking extra cookies to the children. She was an avid reader, and particularly enjoyed reading historical fiction, while wrapped in at least five blankets. She was also an accomplished seamstress, and over the years sewed many clothes for herself and her family while watching the Eagles and Phillies play. She enjoyed stained glass work, and created many “Moravian Stars” as gifts for her family and friends. Her Depression era childhood led her to “oversupply” for every occasion, and she was the only one with plenty of toilet paper during the Covid pandemic! As she often said, “It is not a sin to be prepared, Peter Hall!” She unfailingly took care of her family, providing food, clothing, affection, and whatever else they needed. She was immensely proud of her children, and determined that they would not be held back by her own fears and limitations. As her health declined, she continued to say she was “doing quite well for her age”, and maintained a spirit of contentment.
Betty’s ashes will be interred at Old Saint Anne’s Church, 105 St. Anne’s Church Rd, on January 13, 2023 at 10:00 am. A memorial service will be held at St. Anne’s (town) Church at 15 East Green St at 11:00 am. All are welcome to attend.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Saint Anne’s Episcopal Church of Middletown, Delaware. To send condolences visit: mccreryandharra.com.
