Saying goodbye to Clinton ‘Mayor Hale’

Sandra ClarkAnderson

Byron Hopkins Hale of Clinton almost made it to the century mark. He passed away on October 25, 2022, at age 97.

While working full-time as an engineer and project manager, Mr. Hale had significant civic responsibilities. He served as Clinton city alderman from 1959-73 and Clinton city mayor from 1975-84. In 1982, he was awarded Mayor of the Year by the Tennessee Municipal League.

He served with numerous clubs, committees and boards including East Tennessee Economic Development Board, Anderson County Equalization Board, Oak Ridge Methodist Medical Center Board, Civitan Club and Optimist Club. His longtime service was acknowledged when he was inducted into the Anderson County Hall of Fame in 2013.

He enlisted in World War II after finishing high school and stayed until the war ended. He graduated from Virginia Tech with a degree in civil engineering. After working at TVA and ORNL, Y-12, ETTP, he served as manager of the Clinton Utility Board from 1984-93.

The family will receive friends at the Memorial United Methodist Church, 323 N Main Street, Clinton, on Sunday, Nov. 6, from 1-2 p.m. with the funeral service to follow. Additional obituary information is here.

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