Mary Tom Hale

Mary Tom was the heart and anchor of her family - a devoted wife, daughter, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend. She was a nurturing matriarch whose unwavering faith and love firmly guided all those around her. Her greatest joy was serving others. She also loved Alabama Football and was Elvis Presley’s number one fan.

As an employee of Gadsden City Schools, she touched the life of many students, as if they were her own. She was a devout Christian whose life reflected the Lord in every season. She was a member of 12th Street Baptist Church and First United Methodist Church of Gadsden.

Mrs. Hale is preceded in death by the love of her life, Bill Hale; daughter Lisa Hale Goodwyn; son in law Leon Goodwyn; mother and father James Wheeler Waits and Ola Mozelle Waits; brothers Jimmy Waits, Jerry Waits, and Rex Waits; nephews David and Randy Waits.

She is survived by her daughter Jan Andrew (Steve Andrew); granddaughter Haley Goodwyn; grandson Caleb Goodwyn; sister Florence Dial; nieces Lynn Chappell, Carol Callis, Debra Rhea, Kelly Cochran, Samantha Powell, and Penny McCormick; nephews Russell Waits, Mark Waits, Gary Dial, and Rex Waits Jr. She will be missed by countless other family members, friends, neighbors, and church family.

The family is deeply grateful for the loving care and compassion from those at Gadsden Health & Rehab. Della Kendricks, who became part of our family. Her steadfast love and devotion were a blessing in every way.

Pallbearers will be Russell Waits, Gary Waits, Austin Waits, Richard Rhea, David Cochran, and Matthew Vance. Honorary pallbearers will be Mark Waits, Jeffery Chappell, and Blake Chappell.

Visitation will be held on Friday, August 15, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Collier Butler Funeral Home in Gadsden. Funeral services will follow at 11:00 AM. Dr. Richard Trader and Pastor Sherri Reynolds will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First United Methodist Church Clothes Closet and Ladle of Love.