April 10, 2024, 83, Prattville, AL —

It is with grieving hearts the family of Jesman (“Jes”) Arnold Hales, wishes to share that he passed away surrounded by family, on Wednesday, April 10th, 2024 at his Prattville (AL) home.

Jes was preceded in death by his father Cedric Jesmon Hales and his mother Hilda Mae Stancil Hales Stover, who were long-standing residents of Fremont (NC). He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Betsy Jean Lane Hales; their three children: Jeffery A Hales and his wife Carolyn J Smith, Jessica (“Sissy”) L Hales and her husband Leander “Shawn” Stinson, Joseph “Mark” Hales and his wife Ashley M Lindner; grandchildren: Victoria “Ashley” Hales and her husband Jordan B Hamilton, Lauren M Hales and her husband Jace P Boutwell, Corey D Smith; and sister Mary Anne Hales and her husband Lewis A Weisiger; as well as nephews and other relatives.

He proudly served this nation in the US Air Force as a B-52 pilot and Air Crew Commander (logging 300+ combat missions), as well as a faculty member and instructor at the Air Command and Staff College. After 21 years, Jes retired with numerous honors (including the Distinguished Flying Cross). Following his military service, he worked as an award-winning and top-producing realtor and broker for many years. He passed along to his children a passion for music, nature, animals, and science fiction; and was known for his storytelling, humor, and signature dimpled smile.

A graveside service with military honors will be officiated by Rev. Tim Gore on Sunday (2:00P ET)
April 28, 2024, at Elmwood Cemetery in Fremont (NC). The family will hold a Celebration of Life in
the Prattville (AL) area at a future date.

Flowers may be sent to Evergreen Funeral Home (3888 US Highway 70 W., Goldsboro, NC 27530) prior to
the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to K9s for Warriors (donate.k9sforwarriors.org), Wayne County Animal Services (www.waynegov.com/804/How-To-Donate) or your local animal shelter.