Thomas William Hale

I was just sitting here thinking about one of my favorite teachers from 8th grade; Mr. Hale. He was my social studies teacher in 2003 at COLMS. (Go Team Gators!) He was my favorite teacher and I am absolutely crushed to have googled him and to see that he has passed. I am so sorry to all of his friends, family, and past students. I cry for the loss of Mr. Hale. He has not and will never be forgotten.

It's been almost 2 years and you, Tom, are still so terribly missed. That girls and I talk about you all the time. I guess I need to start getting rid of some stuff- classroom stuff, garage stuff. Not ready to part with more personal items. You helped me to become such a better human being. I love you still and trusted you unconditionally. I guess you might not be walking through the door any time soon. I love you tremendously. You have always been my favorite person.

Forever love.........Annette

Mr. Hale was a great teacher who really helped shape who I am today. I still have fond memories of him and his sims and even now, I find myself knocking back cups of cereal the way he always did. I wish I got the chance to visit him so he could see the person he helped mold, may he rest in power. ❤

I took history with Mr Hale at Chain my 8th grade year in 2006. I recall getting to go through his gifted program and experiencing the history sim we did for the 13 colonies. It was by far the coolest experience I’ve had in education. To this day, it’s something I was proud to be apart of and talk to people about. I often reminisce with my older brother who took the class two years before me. For a long time, we would revisit Mr Hale and regale the incoming parents of how awesome and fun he was. His smile is burned into my memory, and his witty jokes forever making me chuckle. I always felt welcome and empowered in his class, and I believe he created a foundation for me to build upon that’s helped mold me into who I am today.

My deepest condolences to Tom´s family. I just found out about Tom´s passing, and I´m deeply saddened by his loss.

Tom was one of my oldest friends, having first met each other back in elementary school. We were Tommy and Richie back then, and I´m not sure when we both dropped the "e" from our names but clearly great minds think alike. We spent much of our school age years together and I have great memories of times spent playing golf at golf camp together, only to come home and walk to our local golf course to play another round, and then walking back to my house to play more computer golf games.

Tom and I went to many, many, many rock concerts together. We probably would have made a band together within our circle of friends, but for some reason we were all drummers and no one thought to learn anything else. Tom also quickly figured out the secret tactic to get tickets over the phone when they went on sale, and that saved us from waiting in lines at the local music store back when that was a thing you had to do. He was always a guy who knew how to work smart.

Tom was a gifted artist back in our days at Seminole High School too. He was our go to guy when we had to make our pillowcases to wear (it was the 80´s) for school spirit week. Tom, our friend Rob and I were the "Three Caballeros" and he not only drew his brightly colored bird free hand for his "apparel", but mine and Rob´s as well. Tom and Rob and I also worked together at the local BK and there wasn´t much time in or out of high school that we weren´t together.

It´s of no surprise to anyone that knows him that he´s a Florida Gator through and through, and, even having a friend who was a Seminoles fan didn´t stop us from hanging out. In college, he´d share his student tickets for me to sit with him in the UF student section for UF-FSU games. I returned the favor by letting him beat me in racquetball, golf, and just about every other sport that he was better than me at when we lived in the same apartment complex in Orlando after college. We drifted apart after I moved to PA not long after that, but I can see that same spirit of friendship that we had together made him a great husband, dad, son, brother and teacher and know that you all miss him dearly and I do too.

Finding words after hearing of Mr. Hale's passing has been difficult to say the least. He was a truly inspirational teacher who's classes helped cultivate a passion for ancient history that was the driving force for many projects over the entirety of my educational career. His classroom always was an open and welcoming space for anyone to share their perspective without fear of judgement or ridicule, although you may have to deal with a snarky remark or two. His banter and quick wit are some of my greatest memories in class.
Mr. Hale's classroom was a safe harbor for many, and reading that others share the same perspective truly shows how much of an impact he had on his students. His memory will live on through us all.
I can only hope to have as great of an impact on one person as Mr. Hale had on us all. Rest easy

Mr. Hale made lifelong impacts on both of my children who had the most amazing blessing to be under his mentorship and guidance. Mr. Hale’s special gifts to connect with his students, then guide them to learn, development and find their self, is a catalyst for significant future growth and confidence. Mr. Hale not only helped students while they were in his classroom – he happily gave his time and inspiration, even after students graduated from his class. Mr. Hale’s inspiration continues to be strong in all those he taught and touched. Forever Grateful. Tammy Valdes

Everyone who has ever gotten to know or even has briefly met Mr. Hale knows he was a true inspiration. He impacted the lives of hundreds of students in such a positive way, that it is hard to put into words. He was always willing to share his kindness, empathy, wisdom, and patience with his students no matter the situation. I cannot count the number of times I came to his classroom as a middle schooler to cry about things that seem silly now that I am grown. He always made me feel heard, no matter how nonsensical or small my childish worries were. That’s how he made his biggest impact, by caring. He will forever be remembered as one of the most impactful people in my life and in the lives of many others.

I don’t even know where to begin. Mr. Hale was the most amazing teacher I’ve ever had. I was in his 1999-2000 history class, the first year Chain of Lakes opened. I remember learning so much from him and he always had encouraging words. As the years went on I kept in touch and would often check in to say hi and let him know I was still cynical and sarcastic as ever. I would always go to him for advice and he never let me down. He changed my life in so many ways and I am beyond thankful that I had him as not only a teacher but mentor as well. He is very missed and it won’t be the same without him.

It’s been hard for me to find the words to express how sad I am to hear about losing Mr. Hale. I feel like a god (or Batman) has been lost. Everyone has that teacher who impacted them, and I’m sure most of his students would say he was that guy. I went into middle school as a shy insecure kid and because of him left a confident and opinionated force.
Very few people can say that was their middle school experience, even fewer girls, and I feel like I owe so much of who I am today to those formative years. I just want to say to him how much he means to me, that it’s still his voice in my head 10 years later telling me to work smarter not harder. I will always struggle being the loud annoying know-it-all and he was the first person to say who I am was not only okay, but it was great. That changed my life.
I know it’s not only me, so many of us weird neurotic kids found a safe space in that cement classroom. His impact is immense, he actively made the world a much smarter and better place. We were saved by him and I will always be grateful for that. I will forever picture him just getting out of school, pencil behind his ear, gators jersey on, getting into his little blue Nissan Z and zipping out of the parking lot. I miss you Mr. Hale.

There are no words that can describe the tremendous impact that Mr. Hale had on us as students. There will never be another teacher like him, and I am so grateful I was able to be in his class for 3 years. His class was not only different and engaging, but also led by the most accepting, understanding and funniest teacher I've ever known. He was the teacher that students visited during breaks in classes and lunch, and it was hard not to want to talk for hours because of his charming and welcoming demeanor, and his endless witty comments that solidified him as everyone's favorite teacher. I knew that the door was always open to discuss any issue I had, and no matter how trivial or personal it was, he would always be there to listen and give either hilarious or heartfelt input. To be able to connect with your students in a way that they feel more comfortable with you than a traditional counselor is so special. And he truly cared about his students, every single one, to the point that it is almost ridiculous that such a kindhearted and well-meaning person, can exist, with all of his other amazing qualities that had students crowding at his door just to talk to him for a few seconds before class. I will always remember him as the most special teacher I've ever had, and I will never forget the life lessons that Mr. Hale has taught me, even if I forget the history parts. Mr. Hale, you were so loved by all of your students and you made an impact on everyone that was lucky enough to know you. We are a part of your legacy and I hope what I accomplish would have made you proud.

I was so saddened to hear of Tom's passing. Tom was one of the first to welcome me to the Chain of Lakes social studies department. He greeted me warmly and made me feel right at home. I always enjoyed our conversations together. As a resource teacher, I had the privilege of visiting his classroom regularly. The students in his classes were always highly engaged in creative, thought-provoking activities. Tom was one of the best teachers I have ever observed, and he had a tremendous impact on everyone he met. He will be missed.

I’ve been thinking about Mr. Hale all week and I still can’t believe he’s no longer with us. There are not enough kind words to say about how much he did for both of my kids and all of the students he taught. He was the bright spot at Chain of Lakes for sure and I will always be grateful to him and his class. He will definitely be missed.

Mr. Hale was the best teacher I've ever had. The way I take my notes, my love for history, and even just the way I interact with others; all characteristics that he influenced, traits that remain a part of me despite having been his student over 5 years ago. Mr. Hale was unique in the fact that throughout his career, despite being offered the opportunity to do otherwise, he chose to remain a middle-school teacher. And, while this may not be completely true, the reasoning that he chose to share with us was that "Adults suck. You guys are tolerable." But, hidden beneath a layer of his classic Hale sarcasm, is a powerful sentiment, one so strong that it's making me emotional as I write this. He knew how to connect with me, with all of us. Mr. Hale was able to hear us at an age when we felt utterly unheard. He was able to consider our thoughts, no matter how silly or immature, and gave us the honest conversation that so many adults refused to offer. Choosing to teach the "difficult" age group that so many teachers shy away from speaks volumes about his character and the kind of man Mr. Hale was. He changed my life. Though this may seem like a very loaded statement to make, it's something I say with all the sincerity in the world. From winning my first SIM as a shy 6th grader, spending 7th grade eating lunch in his classroom, and putting together his birthday party in 8th, his classroom is almost the entire reason my middle school experience was a turning point in my life. I visited him every year, and I wish I could pop my head in and tell him about everything that's happened one last time. My appreciation for him is so profound that I find myself at a loss for words trying to express it's depth in this short message. I'm sending so much love to his family and hope they know how many lives he touched. His legacy will carry on through all of us. We love him so much.

My deepest condolences,
Isabella Bertolucci

Words can’t describe the greatness of Mr. Hale! No matter how you know Mr. Hale, there was never once a dull moment. He always made the best out of any situation. His job was to teach history but he taught us so much more than what he was supposed to do. He went out of his way to make sure that each and every one of us got the skills we need to succeed in life. He taught me how to effectively get my thoughts and opinions across and communicate my ideas. He taught me how to keep an open mind and never once let something negative get to you. He was always there for us no matter how many times we failed. He shaped the way we think when solving problems and made us better leaders. Mr. Hale was easily the most influential person in my life and the way he taught brought a sense of joy to our faces. Everytime I sat in his class, I was very eager to find out what we were going to do that day and what memories we were going to make. Some of my favorite memories would be when we did sims. His way of teaching was fun, interesting and exciting. Walking into his class was almost like a retreat from daily life. One of my favorite moments was when he allowed us to eat lunch with him during our lunch time. He would always listen to our stories and respond in a charismatic way. Being around such a wonderful person like Mr. Hale brought a smile to my face. My condolences to his family. I will always remember you and miss you immensely! Rest In Peace Mr. Hale.

Coming into middle school I was so lost and I didn't know who I wanted to be. As soon as I got to know Mr.Hale and his class, I was struck with a passion for learning. Mr. Hale had managed to make his class a great place to learn and have amazing conversations in. His teaching style was different than any other teacher i've ever had and this separates him from the rest. He was by far the most influential and favorited teacher i've had. This doesn't only go for me, hundreds of his students have been so deeply impacted by him and his teaching. He truly meant a lot to his students and the lessons he taught were not only for school, they were also life lessons. He taught me how to be independent from the rest and not scared to break the rules of society. My everyday decisions are impacted by the lessons he taught his students. I am no longer afraid I might not fit it, because Mr. Hale taught me that it was okay and even right not to fit with the rest. He prioritized well-being whether it was mental or physical and he guided students to understanding themselves and what makes THEM happy. He truly was the sun on a cloudy day and he made me happy to come to school. I will never forget how upset I was walking out his door for the last time after graduating 8th grade (2020). He truly impacted me and so many other students as a teacher. My love is unconditional and I wish nothing but peace.
Rest In Peace Mr. Hale

Mr. Hale was an incredible teacher and person, and anyone who has met, or was fortunate enough to be his student will agree. He was very intelligent, funny and extremely impactful to my life and many others. He would let me and other students eat lunch in his classroom giving us a safe place to get to know him and each other. This helped me make new friends and get to understand the incredible Mr. Hale even better. He would also teach using his famous "sims'' that would work with him teaching us about a unit like "Roman history" or "Greek history" or something, and eventually we would get to the parts where they would have issues in their history and we would attempt to make the correct choices to move along the civilization and if we chose incorrectly it would be an issue for our civilization. He would also teach us what really did happen in those scenarios so we got to have lots of memorable fun while learning about history which makes it way easier to remember if that information is ever needed. Mr. Hale was a teacher who acted like a real person with his own ideas, thoughts, and feelings on subjects instead of not answering student's personal questions, he would socialize with us instead of just sitting there assigning work like a robot. This would always make it extra fun to go to his class because it's kind of like going to a friend's house for an hour to hang out and do fun games with people, and we got to learn lots of really cool stuff. He is a once in a lifetime person, and I will forever be a better person just from knowing him for a few years. He is an incredible mentor and he deserved the world. I feel extremely special to be able to call him a friend, my deepest condolences to his family. Rest in peace Mr. Hale you are truly one of the greatest of all time.

Mr Hale was a wonderful teacher and mentor, and really helped me understand what we were doing. He truly did pass away too soon.

I was a second year teacher at Chain of Lakes when I received the best comment from a student that I could’ve hoped for as a new educator “You and Mr. Hale are my favorite teachers, but I like Mr. Hale a little more.”

I understood the weight of what it meant being compared to such an iconic teacher, and it motivated me to continue working hard to grow and develop my craft. I’ll gladly take 2nd place to such an influential educator.

Thank you, Tom for setting the bar high.

As the principal of Chain of Lakes, I had the privilege of working with Tom for five years. Tom was one of THE BEST teachers I have ever worked with. I cannot say enough about how he engaged, encouraged and hooked students into learning. He was a mentor, a friend and a true unsung hero in education. You only have to read some of the comments left by former students and colleagues on this page to get a true sense of this incredible man. His legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of the students he taught. He truly made a difference.
My sincere condolences to his family and friends.

Mr. Hale was beyond a teacher to me and his room much more than a classroom.
For 3 years, I knew I had a safe space in the wonderful world he created within those walls. He took our “ gifted” label and made it much more profound, meaningful, and truly taught us about ourselves.
He never doubted us and always pushed us to be greater than we thought possible.
His wisdom has been prevalent throughout my journey in school and career . I will always remember the lasting impact he made in my life and to every student who stepped through those doors.
May you rest in peace Mr. Hale, your legacy will be made known through generations forever.

Our deepest condolences to the Hale family. We are heartbroken.
Mr. Hale was funny, he had a kind soul, he was an awesome teacher and mentor! So grateful for all his guidance in my kids journey through middle school and for the growth they had made because of him!
We will remember you always Mr. Hale, Rest in Peace

To say that Mr. Hale was the kindest, most influential teacher that I’ve ever had in my life would be an understatement. Mr. Hale made it a point to make all of his students feel worthy of taking up space. As a teacher, he encouraged each of us to be open minded, he fostered creativity, charisma, and discussions in a place where so many kids were chastised for it. Some of my fondest childhood memories and best friends came from our class, with endless inside jokes and years of eating lunch in that classroom. He always knew what to say, and what our interests were because he genuinely cared. His kindness and passion for education were so apparent in the way that he respected and spoke to all of his students. Mr. Hale helped me to realize that my goals and aspirations were tangible, and for that I will always be grateful. Rest easy Mr. Hale, we will miss you.

What a one of a kind person and teacher Mr. Hale was. Mr. Hale you taught me to really understand life more and finally think outside the box. Your way of teaching was truly an honor to be a part of. I will always be eternally grateful for your teaching. You are an amazing teacher and person who will always be remembered in the hearts of everyone you came into contact with. We will miss you always Mr. Hale, I hope you are resting easy now. Thank you for everything you did, for all of us, it was truly a gift.

Mr. Hale´s sims and lessons taught me so much and made me love history, something that I´m still very interested to this day. His sims and lessons taught me so much about not only history, but how to be a better student in many ways. He was one of few, if not the only teacher you could actually talk to and relate to. I still use learning strategies I learned from his classes, in history and other subjects. Mr. Hale was the only teacher whose class I was saddened to no longer be in after leaving middle school. His class made middle school a very fun time in my life, and he was the type of teacher you´d want to always keep in contact with. I wrote a second message, but there aren´t enough words to describe the positive impact he´s had on so many people including myself. Rest in Peace to the coolest, best teacher of all time.

Mr. Hale had such a big impact on my life. Being in his class was great and he changed my perspective on the world. He gave me the right mindset for life. He shaped my thought process to tackle my problems and keep an open mind. He gave me the skills to talk with people and get my point across effectively. He brought out the best in me and many others and I am so thankful. He was funny and charismatic, and it was so easy to talk to him. He was a role model and he taught me so much. His class was unique and fun to be in with his humor and clever projects. He has changed me for the better. I will never forget Mr. Hale.

Mr. Hale was my favorite and the best teacher I've ever and will ever have. His Sim games were some of my best memories of middle school. I remember during Covid and online schooling I was the only person in class with him for a couple weeks and even though I was the only one in class he would still make time for me. I remember coming to him with all my problems and he would give me advice for whatever I needed. He was more than a teacher for me and that's why he made such a big impact on me. I will miss him immensely and my thoughts and prayers to him family and close friends.

Mr hale was the best teacher anyone could have. I am truly grateful that I got to experience his teaching before he was gone. Although I only had him for one year, I can’t even begin to imagine the start of my middle school career without him in it. Mr. hale helped to start me off in not only middle school, but life as well and I will never forget the things he taught me. He saw the potential in me and my siblings and the things that made us stick out. I’ll never forget the moments when Mr. hale was so proud of me and our groups because we used our brains to power through the difficult tasks he assigned to us and found our own, new ways to accomplish things. Mr. hale will forever be in our hearts.

Mr Hale had to be the best teacher on the planet, he inspired, he was funny, he brought countless memories that all of his students cherish. Personally, I think he taught lessons that will last a lifetime; they have changed the way I go about my daily life. The time spent in his class was the best, he was so understanding and always was a figure you could go to for support. Something about Mr. Hale is that he took what I knew about procedure and flipped it on its head, he helped me look at things for multiple angles and I am so so grateful for that. Classes under him that I had were the greatest, so much laughter and genuine interest, he was the type of teacher you actually want to give a gift to. From every angle Mr. Hale as a person was someone to look up towards, one day I aspire to bring experiences to others like he did to me. Rest in piece to the GOAT

I had the pleasure of having Mr. Hale as a teacher for 3 years in middle school (2008-2011). Mr. Hale was cherished by all of his students. His classroom was incredibly fun and safe, and he went above and beyond for all of his students. I remember staying after school in his classroom having debate competitions with other students. He developed our critical thinking, creativity, and belief in ourselves. I’m so thankful for the influence Mr. Hale had in my education and life. He is a teacher I’ll never forget. Prayers to all of the family and friends who are mourning his loss.

What a wonderful tribute to a wonderful man. Mr. Hale was a teacher to both my sons and he left a lasting impression, to say the least.
One of my favorite memories is Mr. Hale sitting in the Dunk Booth during one of the school festivals. Somehow, I think he would appreciate that!
Gone, but never forgotten.
May you Rest In Peace.
Paul Sr., Birgitt, Paul Jr. & Alex Van Wormer

I'm one of mr hales old students Kiti. Mr Hale impacted me in so many ways and it really made a difference in my life. He was there for me during losses and when i had emotional and mental troubles he was the best person to talk to. That class really turned me into a better man and a smart and hard worker. I'm going to miss him a lot and he will always be in my memories.

Mr Hale’s class was the most engaging, influential class I had and will ever have. His was truly a class to look forward to and back on. I will always remember the times I had in his class.

He was one of the best teachers I have ever had. He's the reason why I made it through online school and the pandemic. He was always making sure that my class had a positive outlook and making learning fun for us. I know he is in a better place know, and I am so happy that I was able to be taught by him in my life.

Mr. Hale was the best teacher I ever knew. He was one of the most influential people in my life and he will be sorely missed by all.

Mr.Hale was my grandson’s gifted history teacher for 2 years. My grandson Wyatt said he was his favorite teacher and thoroughly enjoyed his sense of humor. I would pick up Wyatt after school and I so enjoyed hearing what his day was like, because he would always have an interesting conversation of what happened in Mr.Hale’s class and especially what was discussed having lunch with Mr. Hale and some other students everyday. What an extraordinary teacher to share his lunchtime in his room to have lively discussions with some students. Not only did he teach history but he gave his students the chance to expand their minds, voice their opinions and be open to different ideas.

We are all so sad that such a wonderful person has left this world way to early.
Our sincere condolences to his family.

Mr.Hale was the best teacher I will
ever know he impacted me so much and the way he changed me will stay with me
forever.

Mr. Hale was only my teacher for a year but he knew my family well. It didn’t matter that I wasn’t officially in his class until ultimately the end of my middle school career, he treated me with the same enthusiasm as those who had been with him since day one. That was almost 9 years ago now, and I have yet to meet another person who inspired as much confidence in my intelligence and ability as he did. He did this for me as well as others by fundamentally, genuinely believing in each student that came into his classroom. Much rarer than you think It was a blessing to meet him, but a privilege to learn from him. Rest easy Mr, Hale. Thank you.

He was my Favorite teacher ever and taught me much more than World history.

Mr. Hale was an amazing teacher and person. My son had to change school's half way through middle school, and leaving Mr. Hale's class was the hardest part for him. It was a rough transition, and Mr. Hale help both my son and me through it. He kept in contact with us and encouraged my son for the first few months of the school move. I will be forever grateful for that, and the lessons that he taught in school as well. My sincere condolences to his family.

I am so sad to hear this news. Mr. Hale had a tremendous positive impact on our family. He will be dearly missed.

I don’t even know where to start..
To put it bluntly, Mr. Hale changed the entire trajectory of my life. I came into his class with little idea who I was, what I wanted out of life and how to get there and I’m so grateful I had Mr. Hale supporting me every step of the way with his witty remarks. Our class was a band of misfits to say the least and we definitely didn’t make his job easy but every single one of his students loved every second of it. The fact that I remembered enough history from my middle school class to pass high school history without ever opening the book just shows how different his teaching style was. He wasn’t trying to stuff our brains with facts and dates he genuinely wanted us to understand why history happened and that has stuck with me for the past 10 years. There honestly is never going to be enough words to describe how thankful I am to have had such an inspiration as a teacher. He beheld far more influence than I think he could ever know and I just wanted to tell him thank you.

Mr. Hale was the most impactful teacher for myself and for many students. He was so good at making students feel like they were understood, whilst helping them learn in a way that best suits them. In addition to being an awesome teacher, he was insanely smart and had the best sense of humor.

I’ve lost count of the number of times my friends and I have said “Remember that time in Mr. Hale’s class” or “We did that in Mr. Hale’s class!”, reminiscing on the knowledge and experiences we gained from him. Mr. Hale’s legacy will live on through the community he built at Chain of Lakes.

My two siblings and I had him for several years and we are all saddened by his passing. My prayers will be with the family of Thomas Hale. Please let me know if I can help in any way. Rest in peace.

-“Butler”

We are so saddened to hear of this sudden loss of one of the best and most influential teachers our two daughters had. Our daughters were very lucky to have such a passionate, outside the box thinking, amazing teacher. He pushed his students in such a unique way to show how amazing learning is. He was always there for his students, our daughters included. He will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family.

Tom was a wonderful colleague and teacher to my kids! He will be missed.

This is a tragic loss. I’m sure every single student who had the privilege to learn from him would agree. Mr. Hale gave me a reason to want to learn every day. I felt seen, heard, valued, and inspired. He had this way of making all of us feel like we could trust him and respect him. He told all of us that our education mattered, that WE mattered.

I’ll never forget the last assignment I had in his class was to debate him, and of course he won. But of all the fun simulations, activities, projects, the life lessons were the most valuable.

Even though I was his student, he took the time to get to know my family and took a genuine interest in my goals and gave me advice I still recall to this day. The 3 years I spent with him as a student changed my life and over the past 12 years I went to visit him many times.

Mr. Hale, you were the best teacher and mentor I ever had. I will dearly miss our “life update” talks and I will still say “go gators” just for you.

My sincerest condolences go to his family and friends. May his memory forever be a blessing.

Our family is so grateful for the positive, forever-lasting impact Mr. Hale had on our 3 boys. He was an amazing teacher and role model. He will be missed and always in our hearts.

I’m so saddened to hear of Tom’s passing. He was such an amazing man, coworker and teacher. His students loved him dearly. I enjoyed his sense of humor and his easy going personality. He was the calm in the storm. We were friendly rivals when it came time for UF vs FSU football games & the “mayhem” to my “Flo” (Halloween 2019). I will always remember his kind smile, caring heart and thoughtfulness. He will be greatly missed.

The impact Mr.Hale not only had on my life but so many others is something words can’t describe. I remember being so excited to be taught by him after he taught both my brothers and the sadness i felt when leaving Chain of Lakes and no longer being able to be taught by Mr.Hale. He was the kindest and funniest man who inspired so many and was so down to earth. He was such a positive role model in my life and i am so thankful i got to know and be taught by someone so wonderful. My family and I owe so much to him for over the years. Rest in peace Mr.Hale you will be dearly missed.

Mr.Hale was a teacher unlike any other i’ve had since. I knew he would always be there for me 100%, and I always felt welcome stopping by his classroom to ask for advice.

He saw me through my academic career, and while it’s devastating to think he’ll never see me graduate, his teachings are what got me to this point, and are what will carry me through these next steps in my journey. Mr.Hale ensured i would always be prepared to tackle anything life throws at me, and i will forever be grateful for his guidance.

I sent my condolences to his family during this difficult time. I will miss him so much.

Mr Hale was the single best teacher for me and probably one of the only teachers that believed in me and pushed me to work my hardest. Mr Hale was the most influential teacher anyone could have. Rest In Peace Mr Hale you will always be remembered

I might not have known Mr Hale as well as his life long friends and family members, in the short time I had with him as a student he always was my go to for advice and would always help me out, even after he retired if there was anything I needed to get off my chest or talk about he was still there, no matter what hardships he was going through he would always try to encourage me and lift me up, and for my classmates he did the same. He is one of the best characters I’ve ever met, he was smart, funny, caring, and selfless. I appreciate all he did for me and for my classmates even with how much of a pain we were. He was more than a teacher to me, he was a role model and a friend I would say. I wanted to say rest in peace and give my condolences to everyone he knew, if you were a friend, student, family member, or had any connection with this great person. He will be missed.

Where do you start? Mr Hale was that “once in a lifetime” teacher to my three children. My kids are forever impacted having Mr Hale as a teacher. Words can’t do proper justice for him, as he was the shining light for all of his students. My kids constantly talked about how valuable his note taking techniques have been even after moving on from middle school!! There is a gaping hole left in a world without him touching our children’s lives. Gone too soon, as he had many other children to still affect. Godspeed Mr Hale.may his family find peace and solace soon. If they didn’t know how much he was loved and revered. They will now.

David Gray father to Isabella, Giovanna, and Leonardo Bertolucci

I was in Mr. Hale's class last year and I cannot explain how much his class excited me and made me want to be in there. He was a funny, energetic teacher who always helped me with questions about his class or even things outside of school. His Sims were some of the best class work sometimes homework assignments in all my years as a student. They were so fun and I learned a lot even if I didn't even realize I was actually learning. He truly made me love a school topic that I did not enjoy at all before his class. He will be missed so, so, much.

Mr. Hale was far and away the most influential teacher I’ve ever had in my life. I was in his class for all 3 years of middle school and I can safely say he was among the most dedicated and caring teachers I’ve ever had. He was funny, personable, generous, insightful and above all committed to giving his students the best education he could. The title of his class was gifted social studies but he taught so much more. Critical thinking, practical life skills, media literacy and so much more beyond what you could expect from the average teacher.

Teachers like Mr. Hale are one in a million and I will be eternally grateful for the experience he gave me and my classmates and the profound impact it’s had on my life. This is a truly devastating loss and I send my deepest condolences to the Hale family. Rest in peace.

Mr. Hale was the most influential teacher I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. Being in his class was the first time I felt fully understood because of his teaching methods and openness to questions. He was amazing at keeping the students on task with entertaining work that he would put together himself. Lessons I still recall from time to time and learning strategies I still use today. He was a great confidant and a fantastic teacher. He will be missed dearly.

Im writing this with a heavy heart in tribute to one of the most defining and influential role models of my life, Mr. Hale.

Although I look much different now than when i first stepped in your class 13 years ago, the man I am today was very much shaped by the lessons and wisdom i was so fortunate to receive from you. Your long-lasting impact was so profound on me, and hundreds of others of students, that I am finding it difficult to put into words. Not only were we both huge Gator fans, but I credit you for establishing the educational and hard working foundation that helped me achieve my childhood dream of attending the university, later graduating. But more importantly, I also credit so much of my character to you, as you shaped my morals, humour, charisma, and so much more. Mr. Hale, you were truly an amazing man for all the lives you touched, and I can only hope to leave half the legacy you did someday. I will forever cherish the memories made and all the laughs we shared. You truly built a community that so many will forever remember.

Rest In Peace,
Thomas William Hale

Mr. Hale was the best teacher I have ever had, and I'm so honored to have been taught by him. He truly shaped the way I approach problems and helped me to see the world through many different viewpoints. He was such an influential man that students would throw him birthday parties and alumni would return to celebrate with him! He was a friend and mentor to so many students throughout the years and he made learning such a fun experience. I know the memories I made in his classroom are memories I'm going to be telling my children about in the future when they ask about school or favorite teachers. There truly is no one else like him and there never will be. He taught me to love and accept myself the way I am and instilled in me the importance of never blindly believing in authority and tradition. I learned to think critically and shed herd mentality when making decisions which has served me well and genuinely saved my life (that is not an exaggeration). So many things he taught in and out of lectures have stuck with me for years and will continue to stick with me for the rest of my life. You will be missed Mr. Hale, thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the love and learning you poured into us over the years.

Mr. Hale was one of the few teachers who believed in me and made me feel like I was understood. To this day I think he was the most influential teacher I ever had.

Mr Hale had never failed to put a smile on hundreds of students faces and filled his classroom with laughter, knowledge and love. Throughout middle school Mr Hales class was a safe place for me and for everyone else who had him. He was the type of person to have the perfect answer to any question you ask him. He is the most intelligent person i have ever meant and someone who i still look up to and always will. May he rest in peace❤

Mr. Hale was absolutely one of the greatest teachers I have known. As a 30 year teacher myself, I was humbled by the things he taught me about my own children. He was right about everything he predicted that I doubted. He was wise and heartfelt. Both of my children had the privilege to learn from him. He gave them room to grow and inspired them to be deeper thinkers. There were hours and hours of conversations in our home about his various sims. They are grown now, but still went to visit them on vacations home. He will forever be remembered in our family as a great role model, teacher and person who helped my kids and me be better people. This extraordinary human will be missed deeply. We loved him.

Mr. Hale was undoubtedly the best teacher you could have ever had. Not only was he a hoot teacher but he was there if you needed anything. I’d look forward to his class each and everyday. He will be forever missed and loved by all:(. forever in my heart

Our entire family is so sorry to hear about the loss of Mr. Hale. He taught both of our daughters at Chain of Lakes Middle and he was a truly wonderful teacher. He had a way of deling with middle school kids while relating to them and getting them to think. Both of our girls have moved on and excelled in high school and college, thanks in no small part to Mr. Hale's wonderful teaching and guidance. We will keep him and the entire Hale family in our prayers during this difficult time.

Sincerely,

The Dills Family

Mr. Hale was genuinely one of the best teachers I have had. His classroom was for far more than just learning. The things he taught me, I have used throughout all my high school years. I cannot explain how grateful I have to have had him as a teacher. Thank you Mr. Hale for all you have taught me and my peers.

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived. Mr. Hale was such an awesome, kind, smart, individual he always made sure to make us laugh. Without a doubt all of his students looked forwards to his class. He will always be mine and many others favorite teacher. Sending much love to his family, may he rest in peace.

Mr. Hale was undoubtedly the best teacher I’ve had so far. From the age of 11 to 14, I looked forward to his class everyday, and he was a very cool teacher to talk to and learn from. He’s helped shape who I am today, and he will be missed.

Far more than just a history teacher, Thomas Hale spent years teaching me and his other students how to be better people and really use our minds. I am deeply grateful for every bit of encouragement and happiness he gave me. My condolences to his family during these trying times, as it's difficult to say goodbye to such an exceptional person.

No teacher has ever influenced me as much as Mr. Hale. Not only was he an amazing teacher but also a safe space for me and all of his students. He will always have a special place in my heart. I will forever miss him.

The best teacher i had in my entire life. May Mr hale rest in piece as one of the best people i have ever ment

he was my fav teacher, gone too soon. rip mr hale

Both Olivia and RJ had the blessing of having Mr Hale at Chain of Lakes. He was an amazing teacher who really pushed each child to be their best as a human! He was very caring and kind and expected their best. We are all sad to hear that he has passed away. We send well wishes and lots of love and prayers to his family. May they know what an incredible impact he had on his students and that he will always be remembered.

Mr Hale was such an inspiration , a mentor , a friend to my children Isabella , Giovanna and Leo . He was THE TEACHER all the kids came back to see year after year just to say hi , chat and Joke around with. His teaching skills ,gift were beyond compare . There a only a few that leave such legacy - he is one of them .
Love you Mr Hale you will always live in your children’s hearts . Rest in peace
The Bertoluccis ♥

since the first class i had with him he’s always been my favorite teacher, Mr.hale didn't only teach me history but how to be a decent human. we are all gonna miss him

Thomas Hale was undoubtedly the most influential person of my entire life. I knew him from the young age of 12 through into my adulthood. He shaped my mind and strengthened my life skills. He was there for me during the toughest points of my life and made me feel like I finally had an adult I could talk to about anything. Someone who treated me as an equal and truly wanted nothing but the best for me. Someone who wanted to see me become the best version of myself I could be. I saw Mr. Hale as a mentor figure, someone I could always talk to and get advice from. This loss truly truly devastates me. I hope that he knew how important he was to so many people.

Our family was so sad to hear this - all three of my children had him for middle school gifted teaching and he was the most amazing dedicated teacher and friend to do so many students. He left a huge impact on them all and will be greatly missed.

I used to play golf with Tom, Don and Bill on most Sundays. Tom was a good, decent person. He will be missed.

I am so sad to see this. Tom was such a wonderful person. I can’t believe it. Please know the cardiac rehab crew at south lake hospital is grieving from this. We are here for his family if you need us.

Tom was a true friend. I will miss him every day. Gone to soon. My golf buddy. I will never forget you.