James Nelson Hale

He was the youngest of four children. He was baptized at an early age and was a member of New Hope Baptist Church in Milan, Tennessee. He received his education in the public schools of Milan and later at Lane College in Jackson, Tennessee.

After his formal schooling, he was drafted in the US Army and later the US Air Force. It was in the Army that he trained as an automotive equipment mechanic and when he developed a passion for working on cars.

After his military service, he married Helen Belew, to this union two children were born, Nelson Keith and Claudette. He later left Milan, Tennessee and move to Chicago, Illinois and was blessed with a second son Dwayne. He worked various jobs after arriving in Chicago. He owned and operated his own service station, where he met and serviced many friends. He also was employed by Corn Products Company as a mechanic and worked there as a loyal employee and friend to many, especially in the company parking lot when their cars wouldn't start. He worked at Corn Products until his retirement after 28 years.

After his retirement, he enjoyed his passion for the outdoors, hunting and fishing. His dogs and his boat were some of the joys of his life.

On March 4, 1972 he was united in marriage with Gwenda Sue Turner of Los Angeles, California. They have been blessed to have shared nearly 49 years of wedded bliss.

He was preceded in death by his parents John and Martha Ola Hale; brother John Henry; and sisters Louise Stewart and Rosie Smith.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife Sue; sons Keith (Gwenette) and Dwayne; daughter Claudette (Leonard) Hamilton; six grandchildren; great-grandchildren; and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and loving friends.

Rest on My Loving Husband Nelson (My Guy)

In Loving memory of James Nelson Hale