Clarence Edward Hales, Jr.

September 22, 1944 - September 15, 2021
Clarence Edward Hales, Jr.

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Clarence Edward Hales Jr, 76, of Wilmington, NC beloved husband, father, son and friend to all passed away on Wednesday September 15, 2021 at New Hanover Regional Medical Center.

Clarence will always be remembered for living his life in the service of others. He was always there to provide a meal to those in need or give a friend the shirt off his back. He certainly defined the term “God’s work, our hands”.

Clarence was born September 22, 1944 in Ocala, FL to Clarence Sr. and Sybil Louise Griffin Hales who proceeded him in death. He moved to Wilmington, NC at a very young age. After graduating from New Hanover High School in 1962 he moved to Louisville, KY and earned a Mortuary Science Degree from Louisville School of Mortuary Science. He went on to have a career in the funeral business and spent 40 years at Andrews Mortuary before opening Village Road Memorial Chapel in 2007.

He was a life-long active member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church. There he spent most of his time planning fellowship events, serving bereavement meals to grieving families, decorating the church for most every holiday and served on Church Council in various roles throughout his life. He was also a member of the Army Reserve, Exchange Club, Lions Club and a number of other charitable organizations. He served on the Board of Directors for The Feast of Wilmington and spent countless hours of his retirement serving meals, hot showers, clothing and fellowship to those in need.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Melinda Holladay Hales and their sons, Eddie Hales and wife Veronica of Wilmington and Jeff Hales and wife Natalie of Las Vegas, NV and grandchildren Griffin and Finley Hales of Wilmington.

A graveside Funeral Service will be conducted 2:00 PM Monday September 27, 2021 at Oakdale Cemetery.

The family will see friends Sunday September 26, 2021 from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM at Wilmington Funeral Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to The Feast Gathering https://www.feastgathering.com/donate

Please share memories and condolences with the family by clicking on the “Condolence tab” below.

Wilmington Funeral & Cremation 1535 S 41st Street, Wilmington, NC 28403. 910-791-9099


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