Tillie Hale

Tillie Hale, age 84, of Van Buren, Arkansas, passed away on September 16, 2025. She was born in Dumas, Arkansas, on January 23, 1941, to Carl and Katherine (Blumhorse) Nickleson. Tillie married the love of her life, George Hale, on May 11, 1957, in Brinkley, Arkansas.

Tillie was a devoted child of God who spent many years worshiping at North Side UPC before later becoming a member of Life Church, where she attended faithfully for as long as her health allowed. She lived a life filled with joy and simple pleasures—whether dancing, roller skating, or tending to her beloved garden. Above all, Tillie cherished her family. Her greatest happiness came from spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, each of whom she lovingly referred to as her “angels.” She will be remembered as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother—kindhearted, selfless, and unwavering in her love for those around her.

Tillie is survived by her loving husband, George Hale; her three daughters, Debi (Hale) Hazelwood and spouse Joe, Sharan (Hale) Lawyer, Karan (Hale) Richardson and Spouse Elton; four grandchildren, Brooke Sallee and spouse Matt, Chase Campbell and spouse Rachel, Baylee Keplinger and spouse Alex, and McKinsey Duncan and spouse Kevin; with one by marriage, Katlin Richardson; ten great-grandchildren, Kenadee, Conrad, Mason, Ramsey, Tillie, Wyatt, Owen, Beau, Waylon, and Jax; with one by marriage, Bear; as well as six siblings; Billie Louise, Christine, Margie, Gwen, Linda Faye, and Junior. Tillie is preceded in passing by her beloved parents, Carl and Katherine (Blumhorse) Nickleson; her daughter, Georgetta Titchenell; as well as three siblings, Marsha Lynn, J.W., and Vonnie.

There will be a Visitation held from 5:00p.m. to 7:00p.m. on Friday, September 19, 2025 at Lewis Funeral Chapel in Fort Smith, Arkansas. A funeral service will be held at 1:00p.m. on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at Life Church in Fort Smith, Arkansas, with Pastors Steven Reed and Ron Patrick to officiate. Chase Campbell, Matt Sallee, Kevin Duncan, Alex Keplinger, Elton Richardson, and Joe Hazelwood will serve as pallbearers. Cremation is under the direction of Lewis Funeral Chapel.