About Joel

A Knoxville, Tennessee native who maintains deep roots in his hometown, Joel Hall had a 34-year career in consulting engineering that saw him living and working in Gainesville, Orlando, and Jacksonville, Florida, before finally settling in rural Hilliard, Florida, in 2005. 

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While playing in a municipal co-ed softball league in Gainesville, Joel met Jennifer Hawkins, whom he married on February 10, 1990, and with whom he has four daughters. While living in Hilliard, Joel commuted to Jacksonville for work, while Jennifer became ingrained in the local community. She reignited her passion for horses, and immersed herself in natural horsemanship. She learned from and trained with experts, and eventually became a teacher and authority in the field. 

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Jennifer was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in September 2021. Joel quit working and became a full-time caregiver. Jennifer died 15 months later on December 5, 2022, at age 56. Joel continues to live at their farm with their three dogs, five cats, and two of Jennifer’s horses. When away from farm chores, Joel navigates his grief through writing – about life, love, and loss.