Danny Hale

Danny Clyde Hale, 75, departed this life on June 19, 2023, peacefully at University Medical Center in Lubbock, Tx, surrounded by his loving family. He was born November 17, 1947, in Tahoka, Texas.  He was preceded in death by his father, M.H. “Shorty” Thompson, and his son William Paul Hale.

Danny attended school at O’Donnell High School, where he was known to get in a little trouble with his friends, ride bulls and loved playing baseball.  He was on his way to start playing professional baseball, but the world had other plans as he was drafted for service in the Vietnam War.  Danny proudly served his country with the U.S. Army in Vietnam from 1968-1970.  He spent his time there as a heavy vehicle driver hauling supplies and equipment through the steep mountain passes to the bases further inland.  He operated everything from haul trucks to tanks.  After returning home, he did just about everything, from trucking to farming.  He enjoyed spending time with his family.  His siblings, cousins, nieces, nephews and grandchildren knew he showed his love by teasing them or giving them their own nicknames. He really loved to fire up the pit and cook. If you were lucky enough to try his cooking, whether it was his BBQ or his homemade chili in the winter, you would understand why.  When he wasn’t working, it was a safe bet you could find him at the lake fishing, out hunting, or just driving the country roads with Deb without a particular destination.  He just loved being outdoors and didn’t mind getting his hands dirty when work needed to be done.

Danny was very proud of his 3 children. He was the best father to them and did everything in his power to make sure they were taken care of, and they would all agree that he succeeded in that. The apples didn’t fall from the tree, from looks, to personality and sense of humor. There was no denying the kids were his.

Those left to cherish his memory are his son, Robbye Hale and wife Heather of Odessa; daughter, Danlyn Hale of Houston; mother, Virginia Thompson of O’Donnell; siblings, Michael Ann Brewer and husband Danny of Lubbock, and Scotty Thompson and wife Terri of Sundown; Beloved companion and better half, Deborah Lester of Lamesa; Grandchildren, Kaci, Kalli, Tobey, Christian, Brian, and Bradyn. Great Grandchildren, Courtney, Blake, Noah and Paisley. He was also missed by his “bonus” kids and grandkids, Ashleigh, Ashton, Jeanie, Shane and Marissa.

Services will be Saturday, July 1st, 2023 at Combest Funeral Home in Lubbock. Visitation will be from 11 am to 1 pm, with the service starting immediately after.

In lieu of flowers the family ask donations to be made in honor of Danny to the O’Donnell Volunteer Fire Department.