Raymond Michael Hale

Raymond Michael Hale went to be with the Lord on October 5, 2021 at the age of 68. Born on March 9, 1953 in Welch, WV, he was the son of the late Mary Wampler Hale Baldwin and late Earnest Cecil Hale. Raymond was of the Catholic faith but held his Pentecostal roots dear.  He loved culinary arts and he catered for many years for special events and weddings. Every dish was made with love.  He also enjoyed warm friendship and a hot cup of coffee.  Raymond was preceded in death by his parents, one sister, Sylvia Elizabeth Taylor-Odum, one brother, Earnest Cecil Hale, and companion, Charles “Charlie” Bonnar.

Those left to cherish his memory are his sister, Connie Bell Hale of Wytheville, VA; brothers, Calvin Henry Taylor of Lynchburg, VA, Lester and Clara Taylor of Patrick Springs, VA; godson, Pastor John Mark and Samatha Collins of Squire, WV; godson, Sean Collins and Autumn Mays of Kingsport, TN; and special friend, Debbie Collins of War, WV. A host of nieces and nephews and god grandchildren also survive. Also, his beloved animals and Dalmatian, Rambo.

2 Timothy 4:7-8, “I have fought the good fight. I have finished my course. I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give at that day and not to me only but unto all them also that love his appearing.”

There will be a private service for the family due to Covid-19.  Cravens-Shires Funeral Home is serving the Hale family.