Hale, James William
James William Hale, a man cherished by his family, passed away peacefully on the 15th of August, 2025 after a valiant battle with brain cancer, in Blacksburg, Virginia. Born on January 5th, 1953, in Giles County, Virginia, James’s was a son of the late Robert Estil Hale Sr and Mary Katherine Neice Hale.
James grew up surrounded by the cascading mountains and river valleys of Giles County, which instilled in him a lifelong love for the outdoors. He was a devoted laborer for the County of Giles.
Throughout his life, James was a beacon of strength and support to his beloved family. He leaves behind his daughters, Ashley Jemison and her husband Damien, Krista Hale and her partner Jake Fox, and Kayleigh Hale and her boyfriend Jim. His presence as a loving father will be deeply missed but never forgotten. James was also a cherished companion to Bonnie McCoy, with whom he shared many of life’s joys and adventures. James’s legacy continues through his grandchildren, Laylah Jade Buckland, Chloey, Carlie, Courtlyn, and Michael Jemison, who will forever carry the memories of their grandfather’s kindness and wisdom. His brothers, John Hale and his wife Peggy, and Sherman Hale, as well as his sister, Margaret Proco and her husband Darrell, will remember James fondly. He was a beloved uncle to several nieces and nephews who will miss his guidance and presence.
James was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Estil Hale Sr. and Mary Katherine Neice Hale; his wife, Debra Darlene Hale; his grandchild, Colton Anthony Jemison; his siblings, Robert Hale Jr and Margie Dowdy; his sister-in-law, Shirley Hale; his brother-in-law, Tommy Moye; his nephew, Robert Hale III; and his niece, Karen Melissa Hale.
James was a true fan of Spartan football. He found solace and pleasure in fishing, where the calm of the water and the thrill of the catch were sources of endless joy. Water activities also included water aerobics which would provide therapy. He was also an avid collector of treasures from yard sales and estate sales. In addition, he enjoyed sharing his culinary skills much to everyone’s delight.
The family will receive friends at a time of visitation at Kendall Funeral Home on Sunday, August 17, 2025 from 12:00 PM until 1:00 PM in Kendall Funeral Home. A funeral service will be conducted for James on Sunday, August 17, 2025 at 1:00 PM in Kendall Funeral Home with Pastor Gary Poff officiating. A guestbook is available to send condolences to the family by visiting www.kendallfuneralhome.com. The staff of Kendall Funeral Home are honored to serve the Hale family.