Larry Hales

Larry Hales, a respected figure in the Hampton Roads community for his entrepreneurial success and dedicated involvement in the church, passed away peacefully on May 15, 2025, at the age of 74 at VCU Medical Center in Richmond.
Born to the late Laura Mae Hales on September 28, 1950, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Larry was raised by his mother and grandmother and spent his formative years in Baton Rouge and Jackson, Louisiana, where he was affectionately known as "Sonny." A standout athlete in high school, he excelled in both track and field and football. His athletic prowess earned him a football scholarship to Stephen F. Austin University, where he contributed to the team's inaugural bowl game appearance at the 1973 Poultry Bowl. During his time at the university, he became a proud member of the Omega Psi Phi fraternity.
Following his college years, Larry honorably served in the United States Navy during the final years of the Vietnam War aboard the USS John F. Kennedy aircraft carrier. Demonstrating his continued passion for sports, he also participated in amateur boxing within the military.
Throughout his distinguished career, Larry established himself as a prominent figure in business and consulting. For nearly five decades, he provided invaluable business-to-business and government consulting services, assisting organizations in enhancing revenue and streamlining operational efficiencies, with a particular focus on those engaged in federal, state, and municipal public contracting. Larry cultivated strong relationships in Washington, D.C., on Capitol Hill and across various federal agencies, where he diligently advanced business initiatives, engaging with numerous federal officials and interacting with many U.S. President since Jimmy Carter in some capacity.
Beyond his professional achievements, Larry was deeply committed to his local community and multiple church organizations. His dedication to youth sports began in 1982 and spanned over forty-five years, during which time he served as a coach, board member, official, fundraiser, and enthusiastic supporter for various Newport News youth sports programs, with a special passion for youth football.
Beginning with his membership to Holy Trinity Church (Portsmouth) in the early 1970's through his affiliation with multiple churches over the course of his life, Larry played an integral role in supporting numerous church programs and activities, often facilitating initiatives and providing quiet support behind the scenes. He spearheaded numerous fundraising efforts to assist small churches and congregants in need. Larry had an immense love for God, the Christian faith and helping anyone he found to be in need. A significant accomplishment was the founding and establishment of the Men's Huddle, an organization dedicated to engaging and enriching the lives of young men through the integration of Christianity and sports.
Larry possessed an insatiable love for travel and connecting with people. He had an endless repertoire of stories and an uncanny ability to find common ground with others through shared experiences or visited places. He will be fondly remembered for his infectious laughter, boundless energy, and unwavering optimism. To Larry, no challenge seemed insurmountable.
He was united in marriage for fifty years to Shirley Combs Hales, up until his death. Together, they shared a deep love for their church, travel, and various community activities throughout their enduring partnership. He is survived by his three sons Emmanuel Dwayne Hales (Sabrina), Larry Patrick Hales, Dexter Bell (Kimberly), daughter Sherrie Lynn Hales and goddaughter Maria Boyd Lawson (Maurice & children). As well as nine grandchildren, Italia Bell (27) Malachi Hales (26), Ethan Hales (24), Javoni Hales (22) Jasiah Hales (20), Madison Hales (19), Ramel Bell (18), Avery Bell (17) and Jaliyah Hales (8). In addition to a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
A celebration of Larry's life will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at Holy Tabernacle Church of Deliverance, 14742 Warwick Blvd. N.N., VA. A viewing will be held from 5:00 pm-7:00 pm on Friday, May 23, 2025, at Whiting's Funeral Home.
Professional services have been entrusted to the staff of Whiting's Funeral Home, 7005 Pocahontas Trail, Williamsburg, Virginia 23185. 757-229-3011 whitingsfuneralhome.com
To send flowers
to the family or plant a tree
in memory of Larry Hales, please visit our floral store.