Billy L. Hale

Billy L. Hale, known to friends and family as Bill, passed away peacefully on August 26, 2026, at the age of 96. He was born on April 28, 1930, in Middletown, Indiana, to Fred and Winnie (Lovett) Hale. Bill graduated from Middletown High School in 1948 before heading off to Louisiana Tech University, where he made his mark as a member of the Tech Basketball Team.

Bill married the love of his life, Edith Jane, in 1949 at the Middletown 6th Street Christian Church. Together, they built a wonderful life and a loving family being married for 65 years. Bill proudly served his country as a Corporal in the United States Army during the Korean War.

In addition to his dedication to family, Bill had a passion for baseball. He was a proud member of the Standard Oliver semi-pro baseball team, which made history by winning the 1955 Indiana State Semi-Pro Baseball Tournament and placing seventh in the national tournament in Wichita, Kansas. Bill gave back to his Middletown community as a youth baseball coach for many years.

Bill worked as a toolmaker at Delco Remy, a division of General Motors, where he was respected for his craftsmanship and dedication. He was also an active member of American Legion Post 127 and the UAW 662.

Bill will be remembered for his warm smile, love for his family, and the joy he found in spending time with his grandchildren.

He is survived by his children, Jay (Halline) Hale of Oviedo, FL and Merilee (Michael) Bluel of Pendleton, IN; Grandchildren, Conner Hale of FL, William Bluel of IN, Faith Bluel of IN, and Katey Bluel of TX; Nephew, Randy Hale of IN and Niece, Bridget Hale Hawley of IN.

Bill is preceded in death by his parents, wife, Jane Hale, and his brother, Lamonte Hale.

A graveside service will take place at 2:00pm on Monday, August 31, 2026 at Anderson Memorial Park Cemetery, 6805 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Blvd. Anderson, Indiana 46013. Graveside services will be officiated by Devin Dummel and military honors will be performed by the United States Army, assisted by the Daleville American Legion.

Bozell Funeral Homes & Crematory have been entrusted to the services for Bill.