1935-2022

John Irven Hale began his eternal life in glory on Oct. 22, 2022. He was born on Dec. 9, 1935, in Iraan, Texas to Maude Ruth Widner Hale and Irven Cook Hale.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his stepmother, Anna Myrick Hale; his brother, Norman G. Hale and wife, Alice; sister, Mary Lou Cates and husband, Willard; stepbrothers, Ralph Myrick; Orville Myrick, and stepsister, Irene Myrick.

He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Mary E. Hale; two sons, Curtis Hale and wife, Cindy, and Bill Hale and wife, D.D.; one daughter, Sherrie Hale; four grandchildren: Dixie Bibb and husband, Josh; Chris Hale and wife, Bethany; Tyler Hale and wife, Kyla, and Tori Cole and husband, Kade; two-step-grandchildren, Shane Carney and wife, Carrie, and Kayla Suites and husband, Steven; twelve great-grandchildren; one great-great grandchild, and honorary family member and friend, Judy Olson.

John and Mary were high school sweethearts for three years before they wed on Aug. 5, 1955.

John graduated from Lovington High School, Lovington, New Mexico in 1954 and Sul Ross State College, Alpine, Texas in 1958.

He spent the first 13 years of his 33 year career with the Dallas Independent School District as a classroom teacher while earning a Master’s of Education degree from University of North Texas. After seven years as a security and truant officer, he was promoted to administration where he served 13 years before retiring in 1991.

He and Mary soon made their escape from city life and embarked on the adventure of building their new home and the Diamond H. Cattle Ranch in Canton.

John accepted Jesus Christ as his personal savior when he was thirteen years old and took special pride and joy in the fact that every one of his children and grandchildren were also saved. He was a deacon in the First Baptist Church of Canton, and an active member of the Masonic Lodge for 56 years.

John had many interests and hobbies, including and especially a lifelong appreciation for country music. He participated in and led many small groups and bands throughout the years and was a talented singer, guitarist, and overall entertainer.

All services were held at Eubank Funeral Home, Canton, Wednesday, Oct. 26, 2022, with Dr. Mike Roberson and Marvin Edwards officiating. Visitation was held one hour prior to the service. Interment was in Haven of Memories.

In lieu of flowers, we, the family, would greatly appreciate donations be made to the following organizations who provided outstanding comfort and care to us all during this difficult time: Azalea Trail Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, 411 Springcreek Rd., Grand Saline, TX 75140, as well as Caring Hearts Hospice, 201 W Broad Street, Mineola, TX, 75773.