Saratoga Springs, NY- Mary Lou Hall, 85, of Saratoga Springs, NY, passed away peacefully at home on November 12, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Born in Canastota, NY, on March 31, 1939, she was the daughter of Francis and Geraldine Perretta. A proud graduate of Oswego State College in 1960, Mary Lou met her future husband, Donald Hall, during her time there. The couple married shortly after graduation and together they built a beautiful life and raised their family.

Mary Lou began her career teaching first grade. After starting a family of her own, she chose to stay home and raise their children. In addition to her seven children, she is survived by their spouses and her nine beloved grandchildren, who fondly remember her as a loving and devoted "Mimi."

Family was at the heart of everything Mary Lou did. She cherished spending time with her loved ones, and nothing brought her more joy than having her home filled with laughter and warmth. Sunday dinners were a cherished tradition, where three generations gathered around the table. Though she loved to cook, Mary Lou was known for her love of making reservations at local restaurants!

Mary Lou was passionate about decorating for every holiday, but Thanksgiving and Christmas held special significance in her heart. She would lovingly transform her home into a winter wonderland, when she would create an elaborate Christmas village complete with candy houses that her family assembled together. These holiday traditions brought joy not only to her family but also to anyone who had the privilege of visiting during the season.

Beyond her love for family and tradition, Mary Lou enjoyed a variety of hobbies. An avid reader, Mary Lou was always surrounded by books. She also enjoyed capturing moments through photography, as evidenced by over 200 photo albums. She loved trivia games, where her knowledge often benefited both teams (because she never remembered which team she was on!).

A talented musician, Mary Lou shared her love of music as a piano teacher for over 48 years, impacting the lives of countless students. Her dedication to her craft and her students left a lasting legacy that will extend far beyond her time as a teacher. Mary Lou was an active member of the Saratoga Springs community, serving as a parishioner at St. Clement's Church. She sang in the church choir and was one of the original Eucharistic ministers. Mary Lou was an active member of the Cultural Arts in the Saratoga Springs schools. She was also a founding member of the Saratoga Springs Children's Museum, where her involvement helped shape the museum into a cherished institution for local children and families.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, November 15, 2024 at 10:00 AM in St. Clement's Church, 231 Lake Avenue, Saratoga Springs, NY. Burial will follow in St. Peter's Cemetery's Peaceful Meadows, 150 West Ave. Saratoga Springs.

The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Saratoga Springs Children's Museum, an organization that held a special place in Mary Lou's heart. https://cmssny.org/