September 29, 1928 – July 13, 2015
Frederick Mitchell Hallal was born in Pawtucket, RI to Mitchell and Nellie (Khoury) Hallal on September 29, 1928. He entered the world alongside his inseparable twin brother, Edward J. Hallal. Together, they brought joy, laughter, and—on more than one occasion—a bit of mischief to those around them.
Both brothers proudly served their country in the Korean War, demonstrating courage and dedication. After returning home, Fred channeled his creativity into jewelry design at Balfour, where his natural talent—despite no formal training—produced designs that are still in use today. He later brought that same artistic spirit into the garment industry and eventually to Pawtucket City Hall, where he worked until his retirement in 1991.
Fred was a proud and active member of the E.L. Freeman Masonic Lodge since 1960, serving in many roles over the years and cherishing the fellowship that it brought. He also took great pride in his Arabic heritage, serving for many years on the board of the Arabic Educational Foundation. He believed deeply in the value of education and was especially passionate about awarding scholarships to deserving students. As he often told his daughters, “A college education is never wasted.”
Above all, Fred was a devoted servant of Saint Mary Antiochian Orthodox Church. His involvement was vast—he served on the Parish Council, the Men’s Society, Adult Fellowship, taught Sunday School, ushered, cared for the church as a custodian, sang in the choir, and served as a chanter. In 1989, he was tonsured by Metropolitan Philip Saliba, a reflection of his deep spiritual commitment.
Fred’s devotion to his faith was matched only by the love for his family. It was at Saint Mary Church that Fred met his future wife, Sophie (Massiwer) Hallal. They married in 1960, and together they raised four daughters: Holly (Bob) Lazieh, Paula Hallal, Cheryl (Anthony) Nassaney, and Nancy (Dimitrios) Sterpis. Always ready to lend a creative hand—whether for school projects or the Creative Arts Festival—Fred was a guiding presence in his daughter’s lives.
Fred and Sophie on their wedding day — June 12, 1960, at St. Mary Church. Surrounded by 200 guests, they began their lifelong journey with a honeymoon road trip to Miami, Florida. They were married for 49 years.
As a grandfather, his joy grew even brighter as he had a twinkle in his eye for each one of them. Whether taking his grandchildren to Slater Park, Dunkin’ Donuts (a favorite spot of his), catching a movie, or simply watching cartoons, Fred cherished every moment with Jordan, Alexander, Moses (d. 1996) Lazieh, Emma and Evan Nassaney, and Steven and Nicholas Sterpis.
Fred was a man of simple joys; a lover of movies, a lifelong Frank Sinatra fan, and an artist at heart. But above all, Fred was a man of deep faith, unwavering devotion, and unconditional love—for his family, his church and his heritage.
Many years have passed, but his presence is still deeply felt. The legacy he leaves is one of service, creativity, and love. And though we miss him every day, we hold onto the hope and promise that one day, we will all be together again.