Opal Workman Hales

Video Memorial TributeOpal Workman Hales, 90, died December 6, 2012 at her daughter's home in Saltillo, MS. She was born in Harrisburg, AR, on May 28, 1922 to Robert F. Workman and Lola Burrow Workman. Opal married Raymond Hales in 1942. She spent most of her life in the Mississippi Delta living in Sledge, Marks, Lambert and Sardis. Mrs. Hales helped manage and work the family farm, worked as a seamstress in a clothing factory; and served as a nanny for two grandsons in Sardis. She ended her career as an adult caregiver at the age of 82. She was independent and a giving person. During all this time her home-spun wisdom, determination, strength of character, and love guided her. Her children and grandchildren are like those in Proverbs 31 who know they are blessed by being loved and nurtured at the hands of a godly woman. The work ethic and Christian values passed down to her family will always be cherished. Because of this heritage, her children and grandchildren have all grown up to love God, family and others. Mrs. Hales was preceded in death by her parents, one brother, David Workman, and a sister, Geneva Davis. Survivors include three daughters: Carolyn (Bobby) Crouch of Saltillo, Linda (Jimmy) Crouch of Pontotoc, Brenda Hales of Sardis, and one son, Dr. Randy (Margaret) Hales of Minden, LA. She is survived by 7 grandchildren: Rodney, Michael, Chuck, Nathan, Christy, Jonathan Crouch and Bethany Hales Sharp; 18 great-grandchildren, and many nephews and nieces. Other survivors include her sister, Lorena Bronson of Sardis, her brother, Robert F. (Mabel) Workman, Jr. of Sledge, and her sister-in-law, Joyce Workman of Crenshaw. The family appreciates the kindness, prayers and support of Pastor Howard Beam and members of First Baptist Church, Sardis; where she was a faithful member. Thanks also to her health physician, Dr. Deanna White and Ima of NMMC Hospice. Services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, 12/9/12, at Wells Funeral Home Chapel, with Rev. Howard Beam officiating. Interment will follow in Longtown Cemetery. Visitation will begin at 12:30 p.m. on Sunday at Wells Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church, 108 West Lee St., Sardis, MS 38666.