Richard Scott Hale, 90, of Galax, Virginia died Thursday February 1, 2007 at his home. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 64 years, Elizabeth Early Hale, his parents Scott & Eva Hale; three sisters Rachel Hale Booher, Martha Fields, and Thornton "Tony" Horne. He is survived by one sister Virginia "Jenks" Beatty of Tennessee, several nieces and nephews; and many beloved family members and friends.

Richard was an Army veteran of WW II where he served from Australia to Japan. He retired from Burlington Industries after 40 years of loyal and dedicated service as manager of the weaving department. He was a proud graduate of Elk Creek High School Class of 1936 and could tell you the family history of anyone in Elk Creek or Independence.

He was in many clubs and organizations throughout his life, but the one he was most proud of was the SAR. Even through his long fight with skin cancer and other medical problems he never lost his sense of humor. He was one of those people that have never met a stranger. He always had a joke for everyone.

The family will receive friends Sunday evening from six until eight at Vaughan-Guynn in Galax. The funeral service will be held Monday in the Vaughan-Guynn Chapel at 2:00 PM with burial in the Lebanon United Methodist Church Cemetery in Elk Creek.