Roll Call Tribute

Malcolm Wardlaw Hall 

January 13, 1940 - March 13, 2025 

Malcolm Wardlaw Hall, 85, our father and grandfather, died peacefully on March 13, 2025. He was born on January 13, 1940, in Paint Rock, Texas, near Ballinger, to Robert Thomas Hall and Francis Louise Wardlaw Hall Ayres.

Malcolm’s life was built on faith, family, education, humility, and a deep commitment to laughter and service to others. He was deeply devoted to the Presbyterian Church, serving as a Sunday School teacher, Elder, and Deacon at Central Presbyterian Church before continuing in those roles at Westminster Presbyterian Church. His dedication extended beyond the local level—he served on the board of Mo-Ranch, a Presbyterian camp in Hunt, Texas. He was a Trustee for the Synod of the Sun from 2001 to 2008, believing in the power of strengthening church communities. He was also a voting member of the Federated Church in Edgartown, Massachusetts, and served on the board of Texas Presbyterian Trust. In addition to his church leadership, Malcolm volunteered as a pro bono attorney for families seeking adoption, prioritizing Christian families in need.

A proud graduate of Texas A&M University’s Class of 1962, Malcolm studied business and economics while serving as President of his class and later as President of the student body his senior year. During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in advancing civil rights and gender equality, successfully pushing for the admission of African Americans and women to Texas A&M by bringing it to a vote while in office. He was also a member of the Governor’s Honor Guard and the Corps of Cadets, honored with the responsibility of blowing the bugle each morning.

Malcolm later served as an intelligence officer in the U.S. Army, dedicating seven years to military service. He went on to earn his Master’s in Economics from the University of Kentucky and his Juris Doctorate from the University of Oklahoma. During law school, he worked nights at General Electric, yet still made Law Review, a testament to his relentless work ethic.

His entrepreneurial spirit emerged early—after doing a favor for a friend by selling wigs from the trunk of his car, he later sold and franchised 65 High Fashion Wigs shops. He had been in real estate since 1968, as a Realtor, broker, and real estate attorney.

Malcolm was a humble man who believed in helping others quietly. He often said, “If people know about your good deeds, they don’t count.” True to his word, he advised and supported countless individuals in launching their own businesses, offering guidance without seeking recognition.

Beyond his career and faith, Malcolm had a lifelong love for sports. He enjoyed tennis, jogging, hunting on his mother’s ranch, baseball, and basketball, finding joy in both competition and camaraderie. He also dedicated time to mentoring youth, serving as an Eagle Scout Master for Troop 555, as well as coaching baseball and softball.

Malcolm’s legacy will be one of kindness to strangers, a solid work ethic, a philanthropic spirit, loud laughter, and timeless wisdom.