Dr. Leon Charles Hallman, 85, passed away peacefully on January 14th, 2023 with his wife, Dr. Patsy Hallman by his side. Leon was born May 8th, 1937 in Dallas, Texas.
A family graveside service will be held Friday, January 20th in Miller Grove, Texas. A Celebration of Life Reception will be held at the First United Methodist Church of Nacogdoches on Sunday January 22nd, from 2:00 – 4:00pm.
Leon was born May 8th, 1937 in Dallas, Texas to Edgar Monroe and Helen Frances (Watson) Hallman. He married Dr. Patsy Johnson.
Leon began his career as an accountant and quickly realized he did not want a desk job staring at numbers. After a complete career change and getting his PHD in Geography from UCLA, he began teaching Geography at SFASU. His career at SFASU flourished and expanded to areas beyond teaching into Department Chairs, the Community Education program and ultimately the Director of the SFASU Office of International Studies heading up the exchange programs with countries such as China, Japan and the Ukraine. He loved his work and always said “Curiosity” is what kept him learning, traveling, and creating.
He was very active in the community and service clubs. He held many positions with the Chamber of Commerce and Rotary International Club. His church and his active participation in the church was a true firm foundation for him. He was very active in the First United Methodist church holding many positions and sang in the choir.
He was the recipient of many awards and recognitions for his work at SFASU, the Chamber, and the Rotary Club. Whatever he made a commitment to do, he gave his all.
Leon was an avid SFASU Lumberjack and Ladyjack fan. He attended football and basketball games until he was not physically able; and then followed them on TV every chance he could. Purple was his favorite color to wear.
He loved to travel stateside and internationally (especially Japan), spending time with his children and grandkids, and working within the community. His patience, kindness, generosity, and love were felt by all that he touched. He was a true gentleman.
Leon is survived by his wife, Patsy, of 43 years; four children: Karen Gilbreath (Paul) of Gulf Breeze, Florida, Adaire Springs (Todd) of Bethleham, Georgia, Dave Spurrier of Longview, Texas and Bethany Spurrier of Houston, Texas; a daughter in law Lee Hallman of Springfield, Illinois; and an “adopted” son Igor Gusyakov (Margie) of Lumberton, Texas. He is survived by 5 grandchildren: Scott Gilbreath, Margaret Gilbreath, Michael Spurrier, Katherine Spurrier, and Alexandra Hallman; and 2 “adopted” grandchildren: Bryan Gusyakov and Vera Gusyakov.
Leon was preceded in death by his parents Edgar and Frances Hallman and his son Dwayne Hallman.
The family would like to give a special thank you to the caregivers that showed compassion and love towards Leon and truly became part of the family: Sharon, Tammy, Sabrina, Virginia, Rose, Robin, Jay, Tonya, Effie, Beverly and Aaryn Hospice owner and nurse, Gina Olvera. Also, a thank you to the many friends that checked on him regularly.
The family requests in lieu of flowers that donations be made to the Dwayne Hallman Memorial Scholarship Fund supporting freshman accounting students at Stephen F. Austin State University. Checks should be made payable to 4 the Kids Fund 205 South Fifth Street, Suite 530 Springfield, Il 62701.
Arrangements under the direction of Murray-Orwosky Funeral Home.
The online register can be signed at www.murrayorwosky.com
