Melvin James Hallman, Sr.

Melvin James Hallman, Sr., affectionately known as “James,” was born on November 19, 1948, in Ben Wheeler, Texas, to the parentage of Roy and Carrie Hallman. James was a man whose life was defined by faith, family, hard work, service, and an unwavering commitment to those he loved.

James accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized at County Line Baptist Church in Ben Wheeler, Texas. While living in Houston, Texas, James joined First Revelations Baptist Church, under the leadership of Pastor Eddie Tibbs. After moving to Dallas, Texas, James became a member of the New Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, where Dr. Robert Earl Price was his pastor from 1998 until his demise in 2012. From 2012 until his passing, he served under the tutelage of Dr. Tommy L. Brown.

James graduated from Van High School in May 1967. Shortly thereafter, he proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from May 1967 through December 1970. On July 13, 1972, James was united in marriage with the love of his life, Annie “Anna” Lee Joubert. Together, they built a loving home and parented three children: Shawn Everette Joubert, Rolanda Michelle Gooch, and Melvin James Hallman, Jr. James and Annie shared a special bond and were a beautiful example of partnership and devotion.

James was a classy dresser who took pride in always coordinating his attire with his beloved wife. He was a dedicated and hardworking man. In 1983, he began his career as a bus operator with First Transit, which later became Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART). He faithfully served in that position for 37 years, retiring in 2020. His long career was a testament to his strong work ethic,  dependability, and commitment.

James enjoyed watching baseball and football, especially his beloved Philadelphia Eagles. He was also a talented auto mechanic who took pride in working with his hands and keeping things running. He was known for his sharp style, his sense of humor, and his ability to bring joy wherever he went. To know James was to know a loving husband, devoted father, hard worker, and the "life of the party". He was the priest, pattern, provider, and fierce protector of his home and family. He loved deeply, protected fiercely, provided faithfully, and made sure those around him knew they were loved. 

James was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Annie “Anna” Hallman; his parents, Roy and Carrie Hallman; his sisters, Eurisine Isabel (Odell), Mildred Lois Walton (Alfred), and Emma Jean Hampton (Lorenzo Sr.); his brothers, Rudolph “Jack” Hallman and John Roy Hallman; his in-laws, Lawrence and Sedonia Joubert and brother in-law Frank Joubert (Helen). Those left to cherish his precious memories include his children - Shawn Everette Joubert (Lisa), Rolanda Gooch (Anthony), and Melvin James Hallman, Jr. (Laqueta); his brother, Marvin Edell Hallman (Debra); seven sisters-in-law; ten grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

James leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, laughter, service, and devotion to family. Though his earthly journey has come to an end, the love he gave, the lives he touched, and the memories he created will live on through the generations that follow. His family will forever cherish the lessons he taught, the laughter he shared, the protection he provided, and the love that was uniquely his to give.

Well done, good and faithful servant.

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