Dr. Patsy Johnson Hallman

Dr. Patsy Johnson Hallman, a renowned educator, esteemed administrator, prolific author, and dedicated community leader, passed away peacefully on May 15, 2025, in Houston, Texas. Her contributions to education and community development leave a legacy, reflecting a life committed to excellence, service, and leadership.

Born in Miller Grove, Texas, Patsy was the daughter of Don and Edna Johnson. She, along with her two younger brothers, were raised in a nurturing home where faith, education, and community service were core values. Her father, a farmer and contractor, also served on the local school board, exemplifying a commitment to education and civic duty. Her mother, a secretary and educator, was deeply involved in the community as president of the PTA. Both parents were steadfast in their dedication to fostering a strong sense of service and leadership within their family.

From an early age in Miller Grove, Texas, Patsy aspired to become a teacher, a dream nurtured by her passion for education and her natural leadership abilities. A gifted student, she excelled in reading and piano, and her leadership qualities shone as she served as president of her class and the Future Homemakers of America. Her academic achievements culminated in her graduation as valedictorian from Miller Grove High School, a testament to her unwavering commitment to excellence.

Patsy’s pursuit of higher education was equally distinguished. She earned degrees from Texas A&M University–Commerce, Stephen F. Austin State University, and a doctorate from Texas Woman’s University, showcasing her dedication to lifelong learning. Her illustrious academic journey paved the way for a career in education that spanned every level, from kindergarten classrooms to higher education.

Among her many accomplishments, Dr. Hallman served as Dean of the College of Education at Stephen F. Austin State University. In this capacity, she profoundly impacted the lives of countless students and educators, embodying her lifelong mission to inspire, mentor, and lead. Her influence extended far beyond the classroom, leaving an indelible mark on the field of education.

She always remembered her mother’s voice saying, “When someone asks you to do something for your community, do it”. She took that lesson to heart all throughout her life.

Dr. Hallman's commitment to community service also shone brightly. She and her husband Leon were the visionaries behind the inaugural Blueberry Festival in 1989, which has since evolved into the celebrated Texas Blueberry Festival. In recognition of her contributions to education and community development, Dr. Hallman received numerous accolades, including SFA’s Distinguished Professor accolade in 1990, the American Association of University Women’s Woman of the Year honor in 1993, and induction into the Nacogdoches Women’s Hall of Fame in 2003. Her unparalleled dedication was further acknowledged when she was named Citizen of the Year in 2009 by the Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce, an honor celebrated at the Annual Meeting and Membership Banquet.

Patsy played a critical role in advancing Stephen F. Austin State University’s (SFA) field-based teacher education research programs. She effectively managed grant funds and organized research excursions across various regions of the United States, providing students with invaluable opportunities to deepen their expertise as educators. Remarkably, she also assisted her husband of 43 years, Dr. Leon Hallman, in facilitating SFA’s exchange student program, which included multiple trips to Japan.

Beyond her administrative roles, Patsy was an accomplished author and researcher, contributing several books and numerous articles focusing on best educational practices. Her passion for family heritage and storytelling was evident in her writings, including a poignant piece on her family’s history in Hopkins County. During her career, she published over 60 academic and non-fiction works. Her exceptional career culminated in her retirement in 2005, following 36 remarkable years of service at Stephen F. Austin State University.

Retirement for Patsy did not signify an end but rather the beginning of a new chapter in her life. While cherishing time with her family, she remained deeply engaged in community activities through her affiliation with several organizations. She chaired the evangelism committee at the First United Methodist Church and served on the board of the AgriLife Extension Service. Her leadership extended to conducting workshops for various groups, such as the Christian Women’s Job Corps, and participating actively in the American Association of University Women’s local chapter. Her volunteer efforts were largely dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Nacogdoches’ Old University Building, a historical landmark that she passionately researched and presented as a unique and integral part of the city’s rich heritage.

Patsy’s profound love and unwavering commitment to her community were symbolic of the values instilled in her family’s legacy. This devotion was poetically captured in her stories of Miller Grove, where she often spoke of her family’s 300-year-old oak tree, lovingly referred to as “The Big Tree,” symbolizing the deep roots and enduring connections that characterized her life’s work. Her legacy endures through her family, her scholarly work, and the many lives she touched throughout her career.

Patsy is survived by her children: Bethany Spurrier, Dave Spurrier, Karen Gilbreath (Paul), Adaire Springs (Todd), her daughter-in-law Lee Hallman, and Igor Gusyakov (Margie) who she loved like her own son. She is also survived by her two brothers, Coy Johnson (wife Patsy) along with their children Clay, Craig, and Kelli, and Lynn Johnson (wife Linda) along with their children Todd and Chad along with each of their extended families.

Her grandchildren include Michael Spurrier, Katherine Spurrier, Scott Gilbreath, Margaret Marutov (Stephan), and Alexandra Hallman. Additionally, she is survived by Bryan and Vira Gusyakov who she loved like her own grandchildren. Her legacy continues through her two great-grandchildren, Evelyn Spurrier and Sawyer Marutov.

Patsy was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Don and Edna Johnson, her beloved husband, Dr. Leon Hallman, and her son, Dwayne Hallman.

Our family extends heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers who provided exceptional care and love to both Leon and Patsy. We are deeply appreciative of Rose Garcia, Indira Otoya, and Robin Cole, whose boundless love and care ensured their comfort and well-being. Additionally, we express profound thanks to Gina Olvera and Valentine Mbuthia of Aaryn Hospice, who cared for Patsy with extraordinary compassion, patience, expertise, and unwavering support, both day and night. We also wish to acknowledge with deep appreciation the many friends and neighbors who checked on Patsy regularly both in Nacogdoches and Houston and contributed to her care over the years.

Funeral services for Dr. Patsy Johnson Hallman will be held at the Miller Grove Community Church, located in Miller Grove, on Friday, May 23rd, at 3:00 p.m. Additionally, a celebration of her life will take place at the First United Methodist Church in Nacogdoches, Texas, on Saturday, May 24th, at 10:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dr. Patsy J. Hallman’s honor to the Miller Grove Cemetery. Contributions can be sent to Carol Dunn at 14280 FM 1567 West, Cumby, TX 75433.