BEAVER DAM, Ky. — James Hall (Joe B.), 70, of Beaver Dam, passed away peacefully on Nov. 9, 2025.
Born on March 30, 1955, James devoted his life to serving others — through his work, his church, and his community. He retired from the Boilermakers Union, Local 40, where he built a respected career and lifelong friendships. His faith was central to who he was. James served as a deacon at Cedar Grove Church and ministered at Green River Correctional Facility, sharing hope and the love of Christ with those often forgotten.
James was also deeply involved in his community. He was a former volunteer firefighter with the Rockport Fire Department and faithfully cared for Echols Cemetery, honoring those who had gone before. He lived with a servant’s heart.
Above all, James was a loving husband, proud father, and “Pappy.” His family was his greatest joy, and he never missed a chance to brag on them.
He was preceded in death by his first wife, Diana (Overton) Hall; his parents, William and Maggie Hall; his brother, Robert Hall; and his granddaughter, Emily Watson.
He is survived by Tammie Hall, his wife of 40 years; his children, Brittany and Chris Watson and Kyle and Josie Hall; Alyssa, Aura, Bren, and Greeley — “his beloved grandchildren, who were the light of his life;” Jamie, his eldest son, Dean, Lisa, Kelly, Taylor, and Camden; his brothers and sister, brothers- and sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews, and many very special friends.
A celebration of James’s life will be held Wednesday, Nov. 12, at 11 a.m. with visitation 9 a.m. at Cedar Grove Church, Olaton, Kentucky, with Rev. Phillip David Embry, Rev. William Geary officiating. Visitation will be from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. Tuesday Nov. 11, at Cedar Grove with Boilermaker rights at 7 p.m. Burial will follow in Echols Cemetery, where James faithfully served for many years.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to Cedar Grove Church Youth Group, 8086 Cedar Grove Road, Olaton, KY 42361 or to the Fathers House Ministry, PO Box 137, Beaver Dam, KY 42320 in honor of James’s heart for outreach.