Harry Douglas Hale, Sr.

Harry Douglas Hale Sr. gained his wings Thursday, June 27, 2024, in Bedford VA and transitioned peacefully to be with the Lord. Harry was born May 23, 1950, in Lynchburg Virginia to his parents John D. Hale and Gearldean Sadler Hale.

Being raised in Coleman Falls Virginia along with his 4 siblings. Harry started his education in Coleman Falls, Va and completed his education at Susie G. Gibson High School in Bedford, Va. Harry became a dedicated employee of Gunnoes Sausage where he worked for 13 years. His interest and desire to obtain his CDL and become a Tractor Trailer driver soon became a reality. Showing determination by attending weekend classes at Alliance Tractor Trailer Training Center in Wytheville VA, all while working full time and raising a family, Harry proudly finished his training at the top of his class. After receiving his certification Harry found his employment home with Averitt Express where he worked for 18 years until his retirement. While at Averitt Harry was faithful, committed and was proud to say an “accident free” employee. Because he was never the type to just relax, after retirement Harry decided to become a School-Bus driver and then went back to driving part-time for Averitt. He did this until his health no longer allowed.

At an early age Harry joined and was baptized at Antioch Missionary Church located in Coleman Falls. In 2011 Harry was ordained as a Deacon at his home church. As a faithful member, Deacon and Trustee, for 9 years Harry was loved and respected by the members of his Church Family. In 2020 Harry made the decision to join his wife and become a member of Mount Plain Baptist where he was accepted as a Deacon and Trustee under the leadership of Dr. Coolidge Rhodes. Working as an obedient and faithful servant Harry served the Lord and the Church.

Harry was preceded in death by his mother and father and his son Harry D. Hale Jr. Harry leaves behind to cherish his memories his loving, faithful and devoted wife, Carolyn Turner Hale, his children, Tyra Smith and Teresea Burton & son-in-law Reacko Burton. Siblings, Gwendolyn Quarles, Barbara Bryant, Deborah Reid and his twin brother Larry Hale and sister-in-law Geronda Hale. Grandchildren, Anijah, Ayden, Kaiden, Devin, Chyna, Alayna, Aviana and Anna. A large loving family of nieces, nephews, many cousins and a host of friends

Truly a man of God, his love for the Lord was everlasting. His faith is what motivated and kept so many of us humbled and with a positive outlook on life. Harry never complained and would often say “Why should I complain, look at what Jesus went through for us.”

When we think of him, we will remember his beautiful smile, his infectious laugh, meaningful conversations and his heart of gold. We are all so blessed to have so many wonderful memories of him, let’s not be sad but rejoice for he has completed his mission and is in the Presence of our Lord. This is not goodbye, this is until we meet again.

Special Note of Thanks

Special thank you to devoted family members and friends that expressed their love, support and prayers to Harry and the family during his illness and during our time of bereavement. May God bless you.

Services will be held on Saturday July 6, 2024, at 12:00 pm, a viewing will be on Friday July 5, 2024, from 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm at Tharp Funeral Home, Lynchburg Va.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg, is assisting the family.