Obituary of Brent Hall

Brent Hall, 83, of Ocala, Florida passed away at The Bridge of Ocala on June 18, 2022. He was born January 3, 1939, the son of the late Joseph Irvin and Wauneta (Williams) Hall. Brent was a native of Morgan County, Ohio, and moved to the Ocala area after his college career at George Peabody for a master’s degree following receiving his bachelor’s degree at Marietta College (1960). Brent indulged his interest in acting by becoming a Thespian in college, performing in multiple productions, including 2 leading roles. In 1970, he married his loving wife Jean Needham, and together the two shared many years of love and happiness. He was a beloved History teacher in Marion County as well as other schools in Florida but was better known as Coach Hall for his dedication to programs at multiple Florida schools especially Marion County’s football program.

As a Coach, Brent compiled 149 wins, 98, loses and 3 ties in 22 years as head football coach at Jefferson County (Monticello), Forest (Ocala), Suwannee High (Live Oak), Spruce Creek (Port Orange and Belleview High School. Hall coached three state championship teams – Jefferson County in1966 and the back-to-back championship teams at Forest in 1974 and 1975. He led various teams to 6 Conference Championships, 7 District Championships and 7 Regional Championships. As an Athletic Director, Brent had 3 Conference All Sports Championships. As the Conference Commissioner (3 years), Brent implemented Title IX athletics for female students.  Brent held several administrative positions including Dean of Boys, Assistant Athletic Director, Athletic Director, Assistant Principal, and Dean of Students. As the Conference Commissioner (3 years). Although coaching was his first love after his love of country, he also enjoyed his position as a teacher. He was proud to teach American History, Civics, Physical Education, American Government, Psychology, Driver Education and World History. 

Brent’s personal achievements include 1 Big Bend Area Coach of the Year Award, 6 Coach of the Year Awards, 1 North Florida All Star Coach Award, and he received the Big Sun Conference Special Award from the Athletic Directors and Coaches for integrity and service to athletics. Brent was a Co-Founder of the Big Sun Conference and was FACA State Football Chairman for 1 year. While in Ocala and Live Oak, Brent started the Marion County and Suwannee County Independent Football Leagues respectively.  Brent had the honor of coaching the Florida All Star team in the Florida-Georgia All Star game two times over the years.

Brent has been inducted into the Florida High School Athletics Association (FHSAA), 2001, Florida Athletic Coaches Association (FACA) Hall of Fame 2003 and the Forest Athletic Hall of Fame

Brent was voted Honorary Life Member of the FACA. This award is based on leadership and is presented to two people each year.  He was a proud member of the Republican Party and the NRA.  Brent was an avid reader and enjoyed cooking. 

Brent is survived by his loving wife, Jean; children, Tina Hall, Kyle Hall, Brent S. Hall, Kimberly Wooldridge (Dean), William “Billy” Campbell (Greta), Melissa Mosher (Brad); grandchildren, William Hall, Dodie Hamrick (Daniel), Dean Wooldridge (Betsy), Sean Campbell (Lauren), David Paddock, and 11 great grandchildren; siblings, Royal “Coke” Hall; nieces and nephews, Kathy Miller, Lisa Dilts, Brent Hall, David Hall.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother Gary Hall, daughter Lori Paddock, Grandson Benjamin Paddock, and niece Beth Hall.

A memorial service for Brent will be held at the First Presbyterian Church of Ocala on July 1, 2022 at 11:00 am. Gathering will be held from 10:00 am until the time of the service. A reception will follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Marion County Youth Football Program, Forest High School Football Booster Club, or Belleview High School Football Booster Club in Brent’s name. Online condolences may be sent to hiers-baxley.com.

To virtually attend the service, please follow this link: https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/9996801504