Although we didn’t see each other enough over the years, know that you will be missed by the many you touched.  Have many great memories my friend.

In hoc,

John Kelleher 

I want to share a few memories that reflect the extraordinary man Ed Hallman was.

Our journey together began in a group fitness class, where I handed him 3-pound dumbbells, urging him not to complain. Little did I know that this light-hearted moment would blossom into a deep and lasting friendship. Ed wasn't just one of my first patients when I was in chiropractic school; he was my first teacher in so many ways. He built me up when I needed it most and offered wisdom that was truly timeless.

Together, we faced life’s ups and downs, mourning losses side by side. I’ll always remember the bear hugs we shared—those epic embraces that we did in secret. If you’ve never bear hugged and wrestled with someone, I highly recommend it. It’s a testament to the joy and connection we had that words alone cannot capture.

Ed spoke of his family—his beloved wife Peggy, and his sons, Candler, who lives in Japan, and Radd, who lives in California—with such grace and love. He cherished all his family and friends deeply, and those conversations filled my heart with warmth. My own family is not close by, and in many ways, Ed and I filled that void for each other. We were there for one another during hard times, and for that, I will always be grateful. 

Ed gave away my wife at our wedding which was during Covid so our family was unable to attend. It was not an ideal situation, but life usually isn’t and we find ways to make it work. 

Ed often joked, “I’m glad that you’re 40 years younger than me because there’s a good chance I won’t lose another friend.” Now, in this moment of pain, I understand that sentiment all too well. Losing him is a heart-wrenching reality that I never prepared for, and I know many of you share this grief with me.

As we remember Ed, let us celebrate his spirit, his kindness, and his unwavering support. He touched our lives in ways that will forever resonate. May we honor his memory by embodying the love and resilience he showed us every day. Ed’s stories of all you will forver echo in heart and soul. 

Thank you, Ed, for everything. You will always be missed, but your legacy will live on in our hearts. 

My brother-in-law, Ed Hallman, was kind and generous. He was also passionate. For many years in our relationship, I mistook his passion for an obsession. Why did he have so many Christmas nutcrackers? Why so many hand-crafted wooden bowls? Why so many autographed first-edition books? Why several cowboy hats? And why watch the movie “Boys in the Boat” six times after reading the book twice?

It was only after spending some very special time with Ed during the last two months of his life that I recognized that these things he appreciated were much more than physical objects. They were connections to people. They were special memories and stories to tell.

The wooden bowls were more than beautiful works of art. They were connections to the artists—which is why Ed took Peggy, Mary and me to visit the home/workshop of Philip Moulthrop, so we could make that human connection.

Likewise, his autographed books were much more than investments. They were connections to the authors, and, of course, stories about meeting several of them, including Jimmy Carter and Ed’s favorite poet, Billy Collins.

What I once considered to be his greatest obsession—rowing—was clearly one of his greatest passions. He loved the sport; he loved the rowing club; and he loved his fellow rowers.

In those visits that I was fortunate to have with Ed after his cancer diagnosis, we talked about many things, but what he talked about most was his family. He could not say enough about Peggy, Rad, Candler, his daughters-in-law and his grandchildren. Family was clearly the one thing about which he was most passionate—and the proudest.

Ed has left us physically, but he will remain present in my life — when I look at the beautiful Moulthrop bowl on our dining room table or pick up one of the autographed volumes of Billy Collins poems, or, if I really want to feel Ed’s presence, maybe I’ll search Netflix and watch “Boys in the Boat” one more time.

Having a wonderful friendship with Ed and Peggy for over 50 years, we have a huge bank of memories--too many to share.  All our times together were laced with laughter, food and gifts.  So many bike rides and stories from the Silver Comer Trail and Bicycle Ride Across Georgia. Rowing adventures at the Lake Lanier Rowing Club including practices, volunteering (legal and physical), competition and leadership. 

Ed was one-of-a-kind.  A loyal friend with the highest professional and personal integrity.  He loved his family, his friends and Willow.  Our lives are better from knowing Ed.  Now, a piece of our hearts are missing.  RIP

Jack and I are so sorry for your loss, and pray that God will guide you through.  Ed will always be thought of as a kind, caring and intelligent man.  God bless.

What a fine and wonderful person Ed was . He will be greatly missed. Indeed, I miss him already.

He was a friend, a fraternity brother, a fellow Demon Deacon, and law partner of mine for many years. We had many great times together, sharing “the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat “ many times.

He was kind and generous, perhaps the most selfless person I have ever known.  The world is a less pleasant place without him.

As Hamlet said about his own father, “I shall not see his like again “.  Ed was truly one of a kind. A scholar and a gentleman. 

God speed FEH. You were loved and you will be missed. 

My heart is breaking for all of you.  Peggy, the love and support you  and Ed have shown for me and my family over the years will never be forgotten.  Rad and Candler, as you know,  your Dad was among the best.  He loved both of you, your mom,  your spouses and the precious grandchildren.  May our God,  that your Dad loved and followed,  bring all of you comfort and peace.

Love and blessings forever,

Mary Ann Hall