William Howard Hale, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and brother, and respected member of the community, passed away unexpectedly on August 20, 2023, at his residence in Jackson, Tennessee at the age of 90.
He was born on June 2, 1933, in McKenzie, Tennessee to the late William Henry Hale and Lexi Mae Coleman Hale.
Howard led a fulfilling and accomplished life. He dedicated twenty-eight years of his career as a member of the Jackson Fire department, retiring in 1995 with the rank of Captain. While working at the Fire Department he also was the first employee of Touchtone Railway as a welder for many years. Prior to joining the JFD he was employed with Piggy Wiggly as a welder.
Not only did he excel in his professional endeavors, but Howard also had a servant heart that touched the lives of many. He served in the Tennessee Army National Guard for more than twenty years and retired in 1987 as SSGT. His commitment to military service was commendable and demonstrated his unwavering dedication to his country. He was also a fifty-year member of the Masonic Lodge, giving of his time and talents.
Outside of work and military service, Howard actively pursued his passions and interests. Among them, none held a greater place in his heart than his family. He cherished spending time with his children and grandchildren, and great grandchildren, who brought immense joy to his life.
In the community, he was involved in various organizations that allowed him to make a positive impact. He was a proud member of the Jackson-Madison County Camp of Gideon’s International. He participated in Jail Ministries for many years. Additionally, he belonged to the Rainbow Ramblers group showcasing his musical talents as a guitarist and vocalist. He was a twenty-plus member of Bible Grove Baptist Church of Jackson, TN.
Howard Hale leaves behind a lasting legacy and will be deeply missed by his many loved ones. He is survived by his son, Steve Hale and wife Patti, his daughter, Cindy Farris and his son, Doug Hale and wife Melinda. In addition to his children, he is also survived by his brother, Marvin Henry Hale and wife Margit. Howard’s grandchildren meant the world to him, and he had a special bond with each one of them: Brian Hale and wife Merideth, Joey Hale and wife Katie, Gina McDill and husband Garret, Alan Hale and wife Elisabeth, Wesley Hale and wife Danielle, Krista Hale, Kevin Hale and wife Abby, Josh Farris, Megan Ethredge and husband Michael, Molly Hale, and nineteen great grandchildren.
Along with his parents, Howard was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jo Ann Newman Hale and two sisters and their husbands, Lula and Norman Hughes and Alice and Cecil Barker and four half siblings, Minnie Sullivan, Glennie Hale, Jesse Hale and Mary Hale
SERVICES: A funeral service for Howard will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, August 25, 2023, in the chapel of Arrington Funeral Directors, with Rev. John Hatley officiating. Burial with military honors will follow the service at Highland Memorial Gardens.
A time of celebration with family and friends will be on family on Thursday, August 24, 2023, beginning at 4:00 p.m. and continuing until 7:00 and again on Friday beginning at 10:00 a.m. until the service.
The family is requesting that memorial contributions be directed to the Jackson-Madison County Camp of Gideon’s International, 30 Sutton Place, Jackson, TN 38305.
During this difficult time of mourning, let us remember Howard Hale as an exceptional individual who dedicated himself to serving others. His kindness, generosity, and love for his family will forever remain in our hearts.
Arrington Funeral Directors, 148 W. University Parkway, Jackson, Tennessee 38305
731.668.1111
