Robert W. Hall

Bob was born February 13, 1937 in Washington, D.C., the son of Ernest and Fannie (White) Hall. He had happy memories of a childhood exploring Glover Park, which he remembered expertly. He graduated from American University with a Bachelor of Arts degree.

From childhood, Bob developed a passion for music and was often found playing at music venues all over the District and Maryland. In his 20s, he founded the popular area band “the Jumpin Jax,” well-known for playing versatile styles of rock and jazz music. Though he played several instruments, he was particularly fond of the saxophone, bass, and mandola. For his entire life, he could be found practicing or hosting jam sessions in his upstairs music room, especially with his family.

In 1958, while aboard a Potomac River cruise, he met and fell in love with Sandy Tymoski. They were married in February 1960 and remained devoted to each other for 66 years. In 1965, they purchased their house in Bowie, MD, where they lived happily and raised four children.

For over thirty years, Bob worked for the Department of the Navy. As the Director of Sea Support, he was responsible for coordinating the repair of onboard equipment on American vessels across the world. His work took him to Naval sea centers up and down the Atlantic and Pacific coats, with visits to Norfolk and San Diego a special highlight. He retired in 1994.

In retirement, Bob embarked on an ambitious project to research, document, and map the historical properties of colonial Maryland. The resulting 12-part series, Early Landowners of Maryland, earned him the Norris Harris Prize awarded by the Maryland Historical Society.

In addition to his love of music, history, and genealogy, Bob was a passionate amateur astronomer. He fondly remembered road trip adventures to the west coast, where the night sky was big and clear. Most important to him was his family—sitting around the familiar kitchen table and telling stories.

He is survived by his wife Sandy; his son Steve and wife Lourine of Tehachapi, CA; his son Dave and wife Leigh Anne of Washington Township, NJ; his daughter Joanne and husband Mike of Bowie, MD; his son Mike and wife Heather of Ellicott City, MD; his sister Frances Raimondi of Nesconset, NY; his grandchildren and great-grandchildren; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and family friends who will miss his wit and one-of-a-kind sense of humor.

The family is planning a private celebration of life, but would appreciate greetings, well-wishes, and stories from those who knew and loved Bob.