Floyd Everette Hales lived a life characterized by family roots in North Carolina, dedicated military service, and a career marked by community engagement. He was a beloved husband and father, remembered for his quiet strength and commitment.

Early Life and Family

Floyd Everette Hales was born on August 20, 1927, in Johnston County, North Carolina. He was the seventh of eleven children born to James and Pearl Hill Hales.

He grew up in a large and bustling household alongside his ten siblings: James Perry Hales Jr. (1917-1994), Fletcher Blythe Hales (1918-2006), Leon Daughtridge Hales (1920-1984), Earnest Harold Hales (1921-1987), Dorothy Clell Hales Furr (1923-2003), Winfred Hill Hales (1925-1960), Vara Pearl Hales Johnson (1930-2011), Betty Lois Hales Pender (1934-2017), Duke Nelson Hales (1936-1985), and Janice Marie Hales Batten.

Military Service

Floyd honorably served his country in the U.S. Army through two distinct periods of enlistment. On his draft card, he declared himself unemployed and residing with his mother in Kenly, signing his name "F.E. Hales."

He first enlisted as a Private First Class (PFC) on December 17, 1945, at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. At the time of his enlistment, he had completed four years of high school and listed his civilian occupations as either a Petroleum Storage Technician or a Welder. He received his first discharge on November 10, 1946.

Floyd re-enlisted in the Army on November 26, 1951, serving until his second discharge on November 25, 1953. During his time in service, he was assigned to various locations including Fort George G. Meade, Maryland, and Fort Jackson, South Carolina. He also undertook specialized military education at the Water Supply Technician School.

For his service, Floyd was awarded the Sharpshooter Badge with Rifle Bar, the World War II Victory Ribbon, and the World War II Service Lapel Button, reflecting his contributions during the post-war era.

Post-Military Life, Marriage, and Career

After his military service, Floyd returned home and began a new chapter in his life. He married **Myrtle Ruth Corbett** on **May 24, 1959**, in Wilson, North Carolina. Myrtle, born on March 6, 1931, in Wilson, was the daughter of William and Nellie Coggin Corbett.

Together, Floyd and Myrtle had two daughters: **Suzanne Hales** and **Linda Elizabeth Hales**.

Floyd dedicated himself to public service, and on **February 6, 1971**, he was appointed postmaster of Kenly, serving his local community in this important role.

Later Years and Legacy

Floyd Everette Hales passed away on **February 9, 1980**, in Wilson, North Carolina. He was laid to rest in Kenly Cemetery in Johnston County.

His beloved wife, Myrtle Ruth Corbett Hales, died on **December 31, 2004**, and is also buried in Kenly Cemetery, Kenly, Johnston County, North Carolina.

Floyd is remembered for his dedication to his family, his country, and his community, leaving a legacy of service and steadfastness.