John Robert Hale
John Robert Hale, 49, of Ooltewah, Tennessee, passed away on June 29, 2025, in Chattanooga.
John began working with the Hamilton County Highway Department in October of 1998. He was looking forward to retiring in three years. He enjoyed helping others, whether it was fixing a car on the side of the road, rounding up cattle or cutting trees after the tornado, he was always ready to help. John was a dedicated and passionate public servant, known for his tireless commitment to helping others through his work with the Hamilton County Marine Rescue and the Sequoyah Fire Department. He also found great joy serving with fire rescue teams at Boyd’s Speedway and North Georgia Speedway, combining his love of motorsports and rescue work.
An adventurous spirit, John loved roller skating, the outdoors, especially camping and four-wheeling. Some of his fondest memories were made at the Cherohala Skyway, particularly in the snow. He once brought snow home just so his granddaughter could play in it, a small gesture that spoke volumes about his generous and playful heart. A true creature of habit, John was known to make special trips to Pigeon Forge just for crab legs from Captain Jim’s. He loved working on his family’s farm. He attended Ooltewah High School and Harrison Bay Vocational School.
John was preceded in death by his father, Robert Orin Hale.
He is survived by his loving wife and companion of 20 years, April Hale; daughter, Katie Elizabeth “Katie Bug” Davis (Aaron); stepchildren, Christopher Specht-Goss (Rebekah) and Chastity Angelique Hair; mother, Jo Hale; sister, Mary Newell (Brian); niece, Lauren Newell; and his beloved grandchildren: Madalyn Rose Davis, Sawyer Orin Davis, Easton Braxton Hair, Harley Grace Hair, Amelia Rose Beck, and Van Hagan.
John will be remembered for his big heart, unshakable dedication to rescue service, deep love for his family, and the joy he brought to everyone who knew him. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the family he cherished.
The family will receive friends at the Valley View Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home from 5-8 p.m. on Thursday, July 3. Funeral services will be on Saturday, July 5, at 2:30 p.m. in the funeral home chapel.
Please share your thoughts and memories at www.chattanoogavalleyviewchapel.com.