Obituary - James Willard Hall

BILLINGS — James Willard Hall, age 91, passed away August 8, 2024.

He was born June 13, 1933, in Belmont, Montana. His mother was Violet Mae (Paulson) Hall. His father was George Washington Hall. He spent his first years on the family farm with his parents. He had a younger brother, Raymond Charles. The Hall family later moved to Havre, Montana, where his father was a cofounder in an automotive parts business.

Young Jim grew up in the automotive business, which became a large part of his life. His first job was as a janitor, at age 8. He attended college at both Northern Montana College and the University of Montana, studying business.

June 29, 1957, Jim married Helen Pankratz, who he met at Northern Montana College. Together, James and Helen built a family in Havre, Montana.

He continued his career at Valley Motor Supply, eventually becoming the president of the company as it grew across Montana and into neighboring states. Jim was also very active in the community, serving as an elder at First Presbyterian Havre, a Master Mason in the Masonic Lodge, and a Shriner in the North Central Montana Shrine club. In 1989, James retired to spend time with family, enjoying their home in Billings and their vacation home in Bigfork.

James loved working in his workshop, building shelves for his various homes, play kitchens for his children and grandchildren, picnic tables, benches, and loveseats. He could regale anyone with the intricacies of cars from the 1940s and 1950s. He spent many hours restoring old cars with his children.

James was beloved by his grandchildren, playfully calling them “Susie,” to their delighted laughter. He spent one summer building a go-cart with his grandson. James adored his wife, Helen, and treasured the times spent with his family. James never met a stranger that didn’t leave as a friend.

James is survived by his wife (married 67 years); two daughters, Wanda Mostad (Tom), Linda Steiner (Cody), and son, James A. Hall (Kristine). James has six grandchildren, Jessica (James), Alyssa (Erick), Katelyn (Daniel), Drew (Jorgeann), McKinley and Laina. He is also survived by his great-granddaughter, Olivia.

Funeral services will be held today, August 22, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church in Billings. Interment will be held Friday, August 23, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. in the Old Calvary Cemetery in Miles City. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting https://www.stevensonandsons.com .

Should friends desire, memorials may be made to the Shriners Children’s Hospital or the charity of one’s choice.