Bonham -- At a regular meeting of Fannin County Commissioners Court Monday morning, commissioners voted 4-1 to name the new Fannin County Extension Office in honor of former county judge Derrell Hall, a lifelong county resident. The 3,200 sq. ft. building located at 2505 North Center Street in Bonham will open later this year with the official title of Derrell Hall Education Center.

Mr. Hall has more than 27 years of service to Fannin County, including Fannin County Commissioner (1985-1992), Chief Juvenile Probation Officer (1993-1996), and Fannin County Judge (1997-2007).

Derrell Hall enjoys a lighter moment during his tenure as Fannin County Judge.

Fannin County Judge Spanky Carter recalled his own years as an attorney representing clients across North Texas and southern Oklahoma and, in particular, the impression Hall made during the 10 years Hall served as Fannin County Judge.

"I've never been in front of a judge who was fairer to everyone," said Carter. "Derrell Hall is a great role model for Fannin County."

"I've known Derrell Hall for 33 years and he is an excellent individual," echoed Fannin County Commissioner Gary Whitlock.

"I've known Derrell Hall all my life and I'd like to see the Extension office named in his honor," added Fannin County Commissioner Jerry Magness. "I think Derrell deserves recognition"

Fannin County Commissioner Stan Barker continued his long-standing precedent of voting against naming roads and buildings in honor of people. In addition, Mr. Barker felt it wouldn't be prudent to skip over previous judges and he noted that none of the other county buildings were named in honor of a person.

Fannin County Commissioner Joe Strong stated that the condition of some of the other county buildings would make it a dubious honor to attach anyone's name to them.

"This is a building we can be proud of," Mr. Strong said of the new Extension building.

Derrell Hall Education Center

Whitlock made a motion to name the building the Derrell Hall Education Center.