Delbert Lee "Jay" Hale, Jr., was born February 25, 1966. He passed away peacefully, on August 26, 2016, with his wife and children at his side.

Delbert was preceded in death by his loving father, Delbert Lee Hale, Sr.; grandparents Lilly Fletcher, Elmer Hale, and Reba and Thurman Blakey; his uncle, Cecil Hale; and his aunt, Hazel Smith, whom he was all very close to.

Delbert is survived by his loving wife, Vanessa Hale, of the home; his children, Christy Ramsey (Eddie), Ashley Carter (Bruce), Lacey Reich (Heath), Carol Ann Hale, Brittany Arner and Delbert Hale, III; his sister, Tammy Johnston (Randy), Bolivar, who gave him the nickname, Jay, when they were little. Delbert would refer to Tammy as his "Big Sis" (oldest). Grandchildren, Mackenzie and Callie Carter, Easton Reich, and Lilly and Eli Dayton. Mother, Joyce C. Hale of Springfield, whom he went above and beyond to protect and care for. He never missed a night calling just to say "I love you, Momma!!" Brother, John W. Hale (Heather) and niece, Hannah, Stockton, whom he always bragged on, loved dearly and referred to as "Little Bub".

Delbert resided on his 10 acre farm, surrounded by the family he adored, his horses, chicken, donkey, dog and his best friend (cat he called "Sissy Girl".

Delbert was always so proud of all his children, grandchildren and siblings. They all knew they could count on him to always be there for them day or night. He was the protector. Delbert doted on his grandchildren, who were his pride and joy ( never did no wrong in Papa's eyes).

Delbert was born at 9:36pm at St. John's Hospital in Springfield. He was self-employed as an Air and plumbing professional. He loved his family, animals, 4x4 trucks and collecting many, many things.

Delbert will be greatly missed and loved by all his family and friends.

Funeral services will be at 12:00pm, on Friday, Sept. 2, 2016 at Klingner-Cope Family Funeral Home at White Chapel, 5234 W. State Hwy. EE (Division St., Springfield, MO 65802). Pallbearers will be John W. Hale, Benjamin Ramsey, Heath Reich, Bruce Carter, Tommy Hale, Randy Johnston, Mike O'Conner and Isaac Scritchfield.

Delbert's family will received friends from 6:00 to 8:00pm, on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2016 at the funeral home. Delbert's family is suggesting memorial contributions to Klingner-Cope Family Funeral Home in lieu of flowers, to help with funeral expenses.