September 14, 1946 – March 10, 2026
John Earl Hall, age 79, of Manchester Tennessee, passed away on March 10, 2026, at St. Thomas Rutherford Hospital. He was born on September 14, 1946, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to the late Maurice Hall and Mattie (Taylor) Hall. John proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1966 to 1970. He dedicated his career to the field of water and wastewater management, where he became widely respected for his knowledge and leadership. John began his career in public utilities in 1972 with the City of Auburn, Kentucky, where he served as water, sewer, and street superintendent and became certified by the State of Kentucky in water and wastewater treatment. Under his leadership, the Auburn Wastewater System was named the Most Improved System in Kentucky in 1973, and he was honored as Outstanding Operator of the Year. From 1973 until 1975, he worked for the City of Guthrie, Kentucky, as water superintendent and fire chief. During that time, he implemented a meter change-out and leak detection program that significantly reduced water loss and expanded the city’s water system. In 1976, John began what would become a long and impactful career with the Sewanee Utility District in Tennessee, where he served as manager for many years. While there, he oversaw operations for a system serving over 1,200 water customers and 550 wastewater customers. Under his direction, the district expanded the water system by more than forty miles, rehabilitated major portions of the sewer system, and implemented innovative wastewater treatment solutions. John was certified by the State of Tennessee in water treatment, water distribution, wastewater treatment, and wastewater distribution. Throughout his career, he supervised and coordinated major operational areas including accounts receivable, accounts payable, payroll, meter reading, and financial records. He also oversaw bond programs that funded major water line expansions serving thousands of residents. Known for his expertise, he was frequently called upon to give presentations to civic groups and provide training to state operators and regulatory personnel. During his leadership, the Sewanee Utility District received numerous state and national awards for excellence and became the first system in the state to achieve a perfect compliance inspection score. John was also deeply involved in civic and professional organizations. He served as President of the Sewanee Rotary Club from 1990 to 1991, was Secretary of the Tennessee Association of Utility Districts from 1985 to 1989 and later served as President of the Tennessee Association of Utility Districts from 1989 to 1991. In 1991, the Governor appointed him to serve a four-year term on the Tennessee Water and Wastewater Operator Certification Board, reflecting his dedication to advancing the industry and supporting fellow professionals. Outside of his work, John was a sweet, loving, and kind man who enjoyed life and time with his family. He loved traveling across the country with his wife in their RV and Jeep, creating numerous cherished memories along the way. He was an avid NASCAR fan, enjoyed playing golf, and liked relaxing while watching classic westerns such as Gunsmoke. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Jimmy Hall. He was survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Glenda Hall; son, Johnathan “J.C.” Hall; sister, Janie (Jerry) Futrell, and Sister in law Lois Hall; niece, Erica (Josh) Emery; nephew, Lucas Hall; great-niece, Hadley Emery; and many other cousins and extended family members. A graveside service will be held on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at 10:00 AM at Rose Hill Memorial Gardens with Brother. Adam Cutshaw officiating.
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