Minnie Mae Hall

Minnie Hall was born on February 12, 1940, to the late Minnie and Elder Thomas Barnes in Wilson, North Carolina. She was the ninth of thirteen children.

From an early age, Minnie displayed remarkable maturity, naturally stepping into the role of “little mama" in her household. Her love for cooking emerged early, so much so that her father built a unique stool to help her reach the stove marking the start of her lifelong passion for the culinary arts. Alongside cooking, she was a talented craftswoman, excelling in crocheting, sewing, macrame, quilting, canning fruits, and interior decorating.

Minnie's journey took a beautiful turn at Speight High School, where she met the love of her life, Raymond. Their bond grew strong, leading to a marriage that spanned 61 wonderful years until his passing in July 2017. Together, they built a loving home and raised four children: Debora, Raymond Jr., Michael, and Ronnie (deceased). Among her greatest joys was her grandson, Michael, whom she adored and cherished deeply.

Professionally, Minnie had a brief tenure at Suburban Hospital before pursuing her creative passion as a visual store designer for Springmaid-Wamsutta. While she excelled in design, her true calling was nurturing her family. A devoted homemaker, she took great pride in ensuring that home-cooked meals were always waiting at the end of the day. Her warmth extended beyond her family; she was a pillar of her community, always ready to lend a helping hand. She also devoted time to Allen Chapel AME Church in Washington, DC, where she lovingly prepared and served meals for senior citizens.

Minnie's faith was the foundation of her life. She accepted Christ at an early age and held steadfast to His love. Minnie joined Faith Temple No.2 Original Free Will Baptist Church under the leadership of Bishop L. N. Forbes. The Barnes and Forbes families shared deep roots in North Carolina, forging a lifelong bond of faith and friendship. Minnie remained a dedicated and faithful member under the leadership of Bishop LaVaughn Hughes, Sr. She was a member of the Golden Age Ministry.

Minnie's passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of her children, siblings, cousins, nieces, nephews, and many dear friends. Minnie leaves to cherish her memory: one daughter, Debora Hall, two sons, Raymond Hall, Jr., and Michael Hall. She is survived by her loving siblings: Moses (Thelma), Nathaniel, Mary, Jasper, and Edith, a grandson, Michael Taylor, a godson, Ricky Nobles, and god-daughter, JoAnn Johns. Her siblings Daisy Belle, Thomas Jr., Robert, Ruby Mae, Samuel, Jeannette and Inez preceded her in death.

She will be remembered not only for her kindness and generosity but also for the little ways she showed her love -- whether by offering you a plate of food, a slice of cake, or her famous banana pudding. Her warmth, wisdom, and unwavering love will be deeply missed and forever cherished.