James William “Scope” Hale, age 76, of Wytheville, VA passed away May 29, 2026 and was born July 29, 1949 in Wytheville. He was preceded in death by his mother, Elizabeth McMillian; brothers, Steve Hale, Fred McMillian and Robert Jeffery “Rocky” McMillian; a sister, Maggie McMillian.

Survivors include his children, Bianca Hale of Wytheville, Jennifer Taylor of Detroit MI, Latia Braxton of Wytheville, Danesha Braxton of North Carolina, Georgina Sawyers of Wytheville, Alexis Hale of North Carolina, Savionce Taylor of Wytheville, Landon Taylor and Elijah Hale of Virginia; brothers, Tommy McMillian of Wytheville and Chris McMillian of Detroit, MI; sisters, Annette Gillian, Kim McMillian and Gwen McMillian, all of Detroit; grandchildren, Zarek Laquan Scope Hale, Alexis Cregger, Brian Cregger, Jordan Sawyers, Alyssa Taylor, Jaydon Taylor, Nahla Perez, Josiah Braxton, Xavion Braxton, Kayla Renea Hale, Yari Pringle, Alana Reid, Denver Taylor, Austin Taylor, Montana Montgomery and Paris Montgomery; great-granddaughter, Laya Kan Rae Deel; his two best friends, Thomas Braxton and Jeni Mimms.

His favorite girl was Marilyn Monroe. Anyone who really knew him knew his two favorite teams were Las Vegas Raiders and Ohio State. He loved hanging out with his friends, Norman Lee and the rest of the crew, drinking and having a good time.

Saying goodbye is never easy for anyone, but even though I won’t see your face or hear your voice, I find comfort in knowing I have memories that will stay with me forever. Until we meet again. Love you, Dad.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Barnett Funeral Home, Wytheville, VA is serving the Hale family.