It is with extremely heavy hearts we announce the passing of Margaret Minta Hall, of Essex, Massachusetts on February 6, 2026 at the age of 78. Born in Worcester, Massachusetts on Sept. 21, 1947, she was the daughter of the late James Cowan and Margaret Minta (Shaw) Cowan and beloved wife to David Hall. 

After graduating from Hollins University in Virginia, she headed to Washington, D.C. and thrived in the hustle and bustle of our nation’s capital surrounded by culture and history including time spent working on the Reagan campaign. Once married Minta settled into small town life in Essex, and raising two daughters. She divided her time between family, and volunteering for many town and youth activities, the Essex Historical Society, the Essex Shipbuilding Museum, the Accord Food Pantry and later at Castle Hill at The Crane Estate in Ipswich, Massachusetts. In addition, she started a fulfilling career as a teacher at local schools including Landmark School in Beverly Farms, Massachusetts and later, Gloucester High School in Gloucester, Massachusetts. As a teacher she leaves a legacy of meeting students where they were, sincerely wanting each to have gained confidence in the art of learning, and in themselves, during her time with them. She was known to discourage sweating the small stuff found only on report cards.  

She welcomed all who entered her home with a “come as you are” hosting philosophy, always happy to add chairs to her table for old friends, new friends, exchange students, four-legged friends and lost souls. She held a strong belief in good manners though avoided things being overly formal or fancy in favor of laughter and ease, always wanting everyone comfortable. She could often be spotted walking with dear friends and family around town or at the Greenbelt working on her favorite pastime- simple, earnest connection. She spent decades summering in Boothbay Harbor, Maine insisting on inviting both friends and family to enjoy it with her, as she believed a good round of the card game Oh Hell, a glass of wine on the deck and good conversation could cure almost anything. She never shied away from a spirited debate on history, politics or the events of the day and made sure crossword puzzles and books were never far away. She never missed an opportunity to curl up with a cat or tell a dog he was a good boy. She ventured far and widein this world and encouraged her children and students to do so as well. 

Known for being practical, steady, dependable and kind; she was the first to laugh at herself and always quick to cheer on the passions and possibilities of others; she was proud of both her own and her family’s accomplishments whilst never putting too much weight in resumes or in keeping up with the Joneses. She was always generous with her spoils, advice, concern, and love. We could go on for days on what we’ll miss about her and the example she left for us as we are all the better for having known and loved her. 

Minta is survived by her husband, David Hall of Essex; her daughters, Bergen Daley of Ipswich, son-in-law Michael Daley and Jerusha Kokos of Amesbury; son-in-law Gene Kokos. She will be affectionately remembered as “Beep Beep” by her beloved grandsons, Scott Daley of Virginia and Colby Kokos of Massachusetts. She will also be remembered fondly by many nieces, nephews, and other close family members and dear friends.  

A Celebration of Life for Minta will be held at a later date. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Minta’s memory to Compassus Hospice Care, 790 Turnpike Street, Suite 202, North Andover, MA 01845 or https://compassuslivingfoundation.org/give-now/. Arrangements by the Campbell Funeral Home, 6 High Street, Ipswich. Information, directions, condolences at www.campbellfuneral.com.