James Almer Hale

James Almer Hale, 88, of Abilene, passed away at his home surrounded by his family on Friday, December 21, 2018.  A graveside service will be held on Thursday, December 27, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. at the Texas State Veterans Cemetery of Abilene, under the direction of Piersall Funeral Directors, 733 Butternut Street.

James Hale was born on September 20, 1930 in a cornfield near Longworth, Texas to W.A. and Myrtle Hale.  He grew up and went to school in Sweetwater and even sang in the high school choir at Sweetwater High School.  James loved to sing, especially his favorite gospel songs.  After high school, James joined the Army and spend 2 years in Korea as cook.  Cooking was one of James’ passions.  He cooked at home, on the job, and anywhere he could find a place to cook for his family and friends.  James was a jack of all trades, as there was nothing he couldn’t do or fix.  His last job was working for Culligan Water Systems, delivering and installing water softening systems for customers of the Big Country.  James was a good father, not only to his family, but serving as a father figure to many who needed him.  He loved his grandchildren and great-grandchildren and will be missed by many.

James was preceded in by his parents, W.A. and Myrtle Hale, his wife Susie Hale, son T.J. Hale and his 5 brothers and 2 sisters.  He is survived by his son James Hale and wife Mary Kennedy; daughters KayLynn Hale, Melissa Schoonover and wife Angela Trevino and Shelly Lopez; his grandchildren Andrew, Alura, Carlon, Jesse, Casey, Sarah, Hope, James, Kristen, Isabella, Shandi, Tiana, Shawna, Haleigh, Hunter and Kris; and his great-grandchildren, Jaiden, Nevaeh, Blaza, Melanie, Eli and McKeena

Condolences can be offered to the family online at www.pbfuneraldirectors.com .