Joe Hale Fray, 88, of Gulf Shores, Ala. and formerly of Tunica, passed away at home very peacefully on Feb. 18, 2021.
On Nov. 12, 1932 in Hornersville, Mo., Joe was the first-born child of Jesse Hale “Doc” Fray and Katherine Lee Parks Fray. He graduated from Kennett High School in Kennett, Mo. Joe was known for his running ability. He broke all track records in high school. Joe went on to college in Cape Girardeau where he broke his own records in track. After college, he joined the United States Marine Corps and served in the Korean Conflict, something he was always immensely proud of. Joe was a deacon of First Baptist Church in Tunica and was also proud of that. Joe loved antique cars and trucks and enjoyed car shows. He was also big on fishing and camping. Joe was in the roofing business for about fifty years and decided to retire from climbing roofs at the age of eighty.
He is survived by his wife of 24 years, Linda Turner Dangelo Fray of Gulf Shores, Ala.; son, Scotty Joe (Leann) Fray of Fairview, Tenn.; stepson, William Anthony (Andy) Dangelo of Gore Springs, Miss.; two grandchildren, Hannah Nichole Fray and Tyler Joe Fray of Fairview, Tenn.; sister-in-law, Sue Fray; three nephews of Maryland; and a niece of Tennessee.
Joe was preceded in death by his dad, Jesse Hale “Doc” Fray; mother, Katherine Lee Parks Fray; son, Jeffery Hale Fray; and brother, Gerald Parks Fray.
The family received friends Sunday, Feb. 28 from 2 p.m. until 3 p.m. at Burton Funeral Home in Indianola. The funeral service began at 3 p.m. followed by burial at Hickory Grove Cemetery with the Rev. Danny Smith officiating.
The online guestbook may be signed at www.burtonfuneralhome.net
