August 18, 1932 – October 22, 2023
Brent O. Hale, Sr., a devoted husband, loving father, and a U.S. Army veteran, passed away peacefully at his home in Noble on Sunday, October 22, 2023, at the age of 91. Brent was born on August 18, 1932, in Boscawen, N.H. to his parents L. Donald and Martha (Roach) Hale.
Brent’s life was one of remarkable courage and resilience, as evidenced by his early enlistment in the United States Army at the tender age of 15. Serving with valor, he fought in the Korean War, displaying unparalleled bravery and dedication, being awarded the Purple Heart as well as his combat infantry badge among several other service medals. While in combat, Brent survived a near-fatal mortar attack that left him wounded for life. Despite sustaining injuries, Brent’s spirit remained unbroken, and he spent the following years in rehabilitation, demonstrating his unwavering strength and determination. Brent would share that this is where he gave his life to Jesus Christ that day on the hillside of Korea.
After relocating to Okmulgee from New Hampshire, Brent continued to pursue his education, earning his GED and ultimately obtaining an Associates Degree in Drafting from the Oklahoma State Institute of Technology (Tech). His dedication to his craft was unparalleled, and he took immense pride in his meticulous workmanship as an Inker, skillfully crafting flawless lines for his drafting projects.
In 1953, Brent’s life took a joyous turn when he crossed paths with Bernice Harjo, a waitress at the Chili Bowl. Their romance culminated in marriage just three weeks later, and together they built a beautiful family, welcoming their three cherished sons, James, Tony and Brent (Butch) Jr.
Though life presented them with various challenges, including a relocation to California and subsequent return to Oklahoma, Brent and Bernice remained steadfast and devoted to each other, creating a legacy of love, strength, and resilience. Upon marrying Bernice, a full-blood Mvskoke Native, he was embraced by her family, who welcomed him as one of their own. The warmth and love he received from Bernice’s family brought immeasurable joy and a sense of belonging to his life.
His spiritual devotion was a cornerstone of his character, as evidenced by his faithful membership in the Noble Assembly of God for two decades. His unwavering commitment to his faith extended beyond the walls of his home church, as he passionately delivered sermons at numerous churches, each rooted in the Pentecostal tradition. His fervor for Jesus Christ was unmistakable and evidenced by his dedication to spreading the message of love and hope.
Brent’s life serves as a testament to the profound impact of his faith, reflecting his unwavering commitment to both his spiritual beliefs and the bonds of kinship that transcended bloodlines, enriching the lives of all those around him. His legacy of love, faith, and unity will continue to inspire and uplift those who were fortunate enough to have been touched by his presence.
Brent is survived by his beloved wife, Bernice Hale, of Noble; his sons, James Hale, Tony Hale, and Brent Hale, Jr.; one sister Gloria; and a multitude of grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. His legacy will forever be cherished, and his memory will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to have known him.
Brent is preceded in death by his parents L. Donald and Martha Hale; granddaughter Larissa Hale; sisters Arlene and Lily; and his brother Fredrick.
A public viewing and visitation was held from 2-5 p.m. Tuesday, October 31, 2023, at Schaudt’s Okmulgee Funeral Service Chapel. A funeral service in honor of Brent’s life will be conducted at 11 a.m. on November 1, 2023, also at Schaudt’s Okmulgee Funeral Service Chapel, followed by a solemn graveside service at Okmulgee Cemetery. Pastors Steve Lance and Tim Good Voice will preside over the services.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Schaudt’s Okmulgee Funeral Service & Cremation Care, located at 220 S. Alabama in Okmulgee. Friends and family are invited to share their heartfelt condolences, cherished memories and words of comfort online at www.schaudtfuneralservice. com, commemorating the life of a truly remarkable man whose spirit will continue to shine brightly in the lives of those he touched.
