Nathan L. Hale

1936 - 2022

HALE, Nathan L., of Chester, Va., passed away December 12, 2022, at age 86. He was born in Roanoke Rapids, N.C., to Mary Jane and Joseph Benjamin Hale. Nathan was preceded in death by his parents; and brothers, Joseph, James and Francis Hale; and sisters, Lena Whisman, Edna Gunn, Janie Askew, Ruth Jordan; and infant sister, Linda Marie Hale.

He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Priscilla Rook Hale; daughters, Lisa Houlgrave (Web) and Linda Hale; son, Ben Hale (Celia); and sister, Anita Whitby. Nathan is also survived by six grandchildren, Janie Houlgrave-Landrum (Collin), Emma Houlgrave, Forrest Houlgrave, Laurel Burroughs, Meghan Hale, Ryan Hale; and many nieces and nephews.

Nathan graduated from Roanoke Rapids High School. He served in the National Guard and the U.S. Navy. He later completed an apprenticeship at Richmond Technical Institute. Nathan retired from Firestone (Allied/Honeywell) after thirty years of service. Nathan and Priscilla attended Ivey Memorial United Methodist Church.

Nathan was an outdoor enthusiast. He loved fishing, boating, hunting and gardening. He also was an avid bird watcher. Nathan and Priscilla enjoyed many cross country road trips; visiting our National Parks and historic landmarks. He also enjoyed riding his Harley-Davidson with friends. Nathan's first love was to his wife and family, who will miss him very much. The family is forever grateful to his devoted caregiver, Fraddie, and his Hospice team of Liz and Kristie.

A graveside service will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, January 28 at Cedarwood Cemetery in Roanoke Rapids, N.C. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association at act.alz.org.