Born and raised in New Iberia, Mark enlisted in the United States Air Force and he and his family were stationed both stateside and overseas throughout his career before finally returning to New Iberia after 30 years. He was a proud veteran serving honorably for 20 years. His service allowed him to travel the world, and among his many accomplishments, he was most proud of having climbed Mount Fuji with his son, Garrett.
Mark was a big ole goofball with a quick wit and an even quicker smile. He loved to laugh, loved to have a good time, and could always be counted on to bring humor into any room he entered. A kind and generous man, Mark would go out of his way to help just about anyone. While he could be a little ornery at times—fondly described by his family as a true couyon—there was never any doubt that his family was the center of his world.
Mark married his high school sweetheart, and together they celebrated 45 years of marriage this past November, a milestone he was immensely proud of.
Above all else, Mark was a devoted husband, father, brother, and friend. He will be truly and deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
Mark is survived by his wife of 45 years, Susan Darby Hale; his daughter, Ashley Hale Padilla (Sam); his brothers, Phillip Hale, Keith Hale (Donna), and Craig Hale; and his sisters, Patsy Hale Darby, Anita Hale Brown (Keith), and Margie Hale Amy (Dwayne). He is also survived by his brothers-in-law, Chad Darby (Marinette) and Mitch Darby (Aimee), and his sister-in-law, Karen Darby Curro; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his father, RJ Hale; his mother, Isa Jean Meeks Hale; his son, Garrett Michael Hale; his brothers, Don Hale and Bobby Gene Hale; his sister, Judy Hale Lasseigne; his nephew, Mike Hale; his niece, E’milie Labbe; his nephew, Reid Darby; and his father in law, Terrell James Darby.
A Celebration of Life Gathering will be held at Evangeline Funeral Home, located at 314 East St. Peter Street, New Iberia, Louisiana, on December 29, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. A Rosary will be prayed by the Men’s Rosary Group on December 29, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. Following the rosary, family and friends are encouraged to say a few words and share memories about Mark.
Mark’s final resting place will be held privately at a later date.
Evangeline Funeral Home of New Iberia is in charge of arrangements
