James Earl Hale, 94, of Blaine, passed away surrounded by his loving family on Tuesday, April 28. Born August 17, 1931, he was the son of the late Willie and Julia Edwards Hale.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Patricia Lynn Brickey, and his siblings: Richard Hale, Ruby Burks, Charles Hale, Carrie Hale, Jewell Edwards, Margie Moore, Sarah Irene Edwards, Willie Hale Jr.; John Hale, Paul Hale, Arthur Hale, and Benny Joe Hale.

From a young age, James had a tremendous appreciation for hard work, a dedication he upheld throughout his life. In a career that spanned eight decades, he worked as a logger, sawmill operator, and home builder. Alongside his son Rick, he was also responsible for hand-digging hundreds of graves in the area. In addition to many other jobs in his younger years. James later turned to building dog and birdhouses. Although he sold hundreds of these, many were given as gifts to friends and family and will be cherished for years to come. James was always generous with his skills and time, and he never missed an opportunity to share a good story or joke, accompanied by his unforgettable laugh and smile.

While James valued hard work, his family was his greatest joy. He never missed an opportunity to treat his grandchildren or proudly brag about them, each of whom he lovingly called by nicknames he gave them in childhood. These nicknames were seemingly random but treasured by those who assumed them.

He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 72 years, Alma Stephens Hale, who cared for him with tireless and unwavering devotion until the end. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his brother, Bobby Gene Hale; his two sons Rick (Linda) Hale and Randy (Lynn) Hale; his son-in-law Victor Brickey Jr.; his grandchildren, Jeremy (Carol) Brickey, Courtney Brickey, Derek Hale, Tiffany (Hans) Doderer, and Cameron (Jordyn) Hale; and his great grandchildren, Michael Brickey, Seth Hale,, Eli Doderer, Lila Doderer, and Lilly Doderer.

Funeral services were conducted on Saturday May 2nd at 2:00 pm at the Wilson Funeral Home with Rev. Gary Sparks and Pastor Chris Wilson officiating. Burial followed in the Yatesville Memorail Gardens Louisa, Kentucky.

James lived a long impactful life, and his strong work ethic helped inspire his children and grandchildren to pursue successful careers, advanced education, and lives that value family and hard work. His stories, advice, and example will live on in all who were close to him for generations to come. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Care for James and his family has been entrusted to our famly at Wilson Funeral Home.