A.O. "Buzzy" Hale Jr.

A.O. "Buzzy" Hale Jr., 79, a devoted Christian, father, and loving husband, passed away peacefully at his home in Kemp, Texas, on August 6, 2016. Buzzy was born in El Dorado, Ark. on November 23rd, 1936, to A.O. Hale and Mable Rainwater Hale. After graduating from El Dorado High School and attending Arkansas Tech University, he served in the United States Army. Following his graduation from The University of Arkansas as a Sigma Chi, he enjoyed a successful career in data processing and financial services. Buzzy retired to Cedar Creek Lake, Texas, in 1989 at the age of 52. He was an avid hunter, fisherman, golfer, and dedicated Arkansas Razorback. He loved helping his community or anyone in need. He was an active member of St. James Episcopal Church and served on the board at Cedar Creek Country Club. His work with Mabank Area Good Samaritans, Forever Families, and the Senior Citizen Center had a positive impact on so many in the community. He is survived by his wife, Sandy Garland Hale, and children, Mary Deidre Hale of Little Rock, Ark.; Kristin Hale Lawton of Asheville, N.C.; Holly Hale Boswell and husband Chad of Cashiers, N.C.; Craig Garland of Forney, Texas; Matt Garland of Lexington, Ky.; sister, Dorinda Hale Crews of Hamburg, Ark.; brother, Russell Hale and wife Lynda of Coppell, Texas; Jane Irving, the mother of his three daughters of Heber Springs, Ark.; grandchildren, Braden Hale Boswell and Hadley Lee Boswell; and many nieces, nephews, friends, and loved ones. Buzzy was preceded in death by his parents, brother-in-law, Donald Crews and Dee Arlene Hale. A celebration of his life, led by Fr. Jerry D. Morriss, will be held at St. James Episcopal Church, Kemp, Texas, on Thursday, August 11, 2016, at 10 a.m. Immediately following the service, a reception will be held in the Fellowship Hall. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to one of the following: St. James Episcopal Church, Memorial Fund, 10707 CR 4022, Kemp, Texas 75143 or Mabank Area Good Samaritans, P.O. Box 1891, Mabank, Texas 75147.