Bennie Hale, Jr.

Bennie Hale Jr. was born on April 18, 1928, to Bennie Hale and Flora Proctor Hale in Clarksdale, Mississippi. He is the third oldest of twelve children. Bennie’s childhood nickname was Peter.

Bennie was a hard worker at an early age. By the time he was eight years old he was driving. He worked with his father to deliver ice and oil. He also worked in the cotton fields - bringing the workers lunch, ice, and water. Sundays were busy for Bennie also. He drove the family Model-T Ford picking up and dropping off worshippers all day.

Bennie enlisted in the Navy during World War II. When the war ended Bennie returned to Clarksdale. But soon after he moved to St. Louis, Mo. Bennie went to trade school, graduated and became a Master Upholsterer. He went into business for himself “GOOD LOOKIN’ OUT” Upholstery. Bennie established his reputation as he navigated the city, becoming known for the high quality of his work.

Bennie lived his life and enjoyed having fun. In 2004, Bennie met his wife, Paulette, Sunday after Thanksgiving. Bennie was an instant success with her mother and grandmother. He was upbeat and charming. They became best friends. Bennie and Paulette got married on April 30, 2016.

Mr. Hale, Good Lookin Out, Peter or Bennie all sums up to an amazing man. Loved deeply, humbly without fail. He always would say he’s doing a 100. With a smile on his face, never complaining, Bennie enjoyed watching westerns, listening to music, and entertaining family and friends.

The latter years of Bennie’s life presented challenges that would call for him to stand tall in the face of numerous health issues. He fought a valiant fight alongside his wife, children, family, and friends.

Mr. Bennie Hale Jr. has his wings in heaven and is reunited with his loved ones who proceeded him in his transition, including his parents, Bennie and Flora Hale; six sisters, Mary Scott, Vanilla Richards, Mary Covington, Clara Avant, Elizabeth Fortenberry Allen and Katie Hale; three brothers, Jack Hale, Edward “Sonny” Hale and Alex Hale.

Bennie survived by his wife, Paulette McKinney-Hale; his children - Rosalind Guy, Brenda Williams, Bennie Hale III (Tisha), Keisha Hawthorne (Michael), and Jason Stewart; his road dogs - James Stewart, Aimee Plummer, Howard Johnson, Alphonsus Young and Leon McKinney; and a host of grandchildren, nieces, nephews, friends, and family.

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