On January 4, 2024, the community of Eden bid farewell to a beloved figure, Phillip “David” Hale, a man whose life was marked by service, family values, and a love for Gospel music. Born on July 15, 1949, David, 74, peacefully passed away at his home, leaving behind a legacy that touched the hearts of many.
A funeral service, commemorating David’s life, will take place at 2 pm on Monday, January 8, 2024, at Fair Funeral Home Chapel in Eden. The interment will follow at Ridgeview Memorial Gardens. Prior to the service, friends and family will gather for visitation on Sunday, January 7, 2024, from 4 pm to 6 pm at Fair Funeral Home. David’s journey began on a summer day in Rockingham County, NC, where he was born to the late George “Noal” Hale, Sr., and Gladys Hamilton Martin Hale. Growing up in a tight-knit community, David developed a strong sense of duty and camaraderie that would shape his character in the years to come.
A proud Navy Veteran, David served his country during the tumultuous Vietnam War, demonstrating his courage and commitment to a cause greater than himself. His military service laid the foundation for a life dedicated to principles of honor, duty, and sacrifice. After returning from his military service, David continued his education, graduating from Morehead High School, class of 1967. He furthered his studies and earned an Associate’s Degree from Rockingham Community College in 1976. Armed with education and a strong work ethic, David entered the workforce and embarked on a career in the tobacco industry.
For most of his professional life, David worked as a machine operator in the tobacco sector, contributing to the operations of American Tobacco in Reidsville and Lorillard Tobacco in Greensboro. His dedication and hard work were evident throughout his career, culminating in his well-deserved retirement from Lorillard Tobacco Company in 2014.
Beyond his professional pursuits, David was a man of faith. A member of Draper Pentecostal Holiness Church, he found solace and community in his spiritual life. The church provided him with a space to express his devotion to the divine and connect with others who shared his faith.
One of David’s greatest passions was Gospel music. Blessed with a love for singing, he immersed himself in the world of melodies that conveyed messages of faith, hope, and love. His voice, a testament to his soulful connection with Gospel music, became a source of inspiration and joy for those fortunate enough to hear him sing.
