Former Chief Justice of the Utah Supreme Court Gordon R. Hall passed away on June 1, according to an announcement from the Utah Judiciary on Wednesday.
The late justice, known for his contributions in supporting the independence of the Utah court system, was 98 at the time of his death, as the Salt Lake Tribune reported.
According to his obituary, he was born on Dec. 14, 1926, and "enjoyed a lengthy and distinguished legal career.
"He was Tooele County attorney, 3rd District Judge, Justice, and the longest-serving Chief Justice of the Utah Supreme Court." the tribute went on.
Hall was appointed to the Utah Supreme Court in 1977 and served as chief justice from 1981 to 1993. Serving as part of the state's high court, Hall had the opportunity to leave a lasting mark on the state's rule of law, going forward.
He also served as the President of the Conference of Chief Justices, and led Utah’s Judicial Council, as well as sitting chair for the National Center for State Courts.
Additionally, Hall had the distinction of receiving the Distinguished Jurist Award in 1988, due to his contributions to the judiciary during his time on the bench.
Like many who sit on the bench, he had the opportunity to learn what it means to represent the people of his state prior to taking the Supreme Court position, thanks to Hall's career beginnings in private practice.
Current Chief Justice Matthew Durrant spoke out about his fellow jurist, talking about his respect for the late judge's dedication to their guiding principles:
“Chief Justice Gordon R. Hall was a visionary leader whose commitment to fairness, judicial integrity, and the rule of law shaped our courts for generations.
"His legacy endures in the independence of Utah’s judiciary and the many lives he influenced,” current Chief Justice Matthew Durrant said.
Hall also served as the Tooele County Attorney and a Third District Court judge in his time before the Supreme Court, working his way through the state court system, winning the respect of many.
Hall's obituary described a personal life full of family who loved the late judge, saying, "He was married to his true soulmate and love of his life, Doris Gillespie, in 1947.
"He is survived by his children, Rick and Craig Hall, grandson Brian Hall, as well as numerous accomplished nieces and nephews who are the enduring legacy of his now deceased siblings Ella Rae and D'Aure 'Buck.'"
