Raymond Marvin Hale, 72, of Bedford and formerly of Giles County, died on Saturday, July 4, 2009 in Oakwood Manor in Bedford. Born on April 6, 1937 in Giles County, he was a son of the late Estel and Janie Lucas Hale. He was a retired survey party chief for the Virginia Department of Transportation. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his wife, Louise Gilispie Hale, two brothers Freddie Hale and Eugene Hale.

He is survived by this three sons and daughters-in-law Marvin Wayne and Susan Hale of Bedford, Stevie Lee and Lynn Hale of Christiansburg, Michael Eugene and Melissa Hale of Palmyra; his brother Robert "Bob" Hale of Pembroke; seven grandchildren Jason N. Hale and wife Elisha of Christiansburg, Bradley S. Hale of Christiansburg, Michael E. Hale, Jr. and wife Jessica of Palmyra, Nicole L. Hale of Palmyra, Elizabeth L. Hale, Timothy W. Hale and Patricia R. Hale all of Bedford and one great-granddaughter Madelyn Rylee Hale of Christiansburg.

A celebration of Raymond's life will be conducted Wednesday, July 8, 2009 at 11:00 AM in the Kendall Funeral Home at 605 Snidow St. in Pembroke with Pastor Eddie Kendall officiating. Burial will follow in Birchlawn Burial Park in Pearisburg. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Tuesday evening from 6 to 8 PM. In lieu of flowers the family suggests that contributions may be made to Bedford Baptist Youth Mission Trip Fund, Bedford Baptist Church, 1516 Oakwood Street, Bedford, VA 24523. Online condolences may be sent by visiting kendallfuneralhome.com.