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Note: Prof. E. B. Hale, Obituary states that he was a "Well Known Educator" and praises his work to improve the standards of the quality of schools in
Letcher County.
Tombstone states birth 1784.
Notes for Elijah B. Hale:
The following obituary is from The Mountain Eagle newspaper dated 02/29/40, page 1, column 6, 7:
"Prof. E. B. (Elijah) Hale, Well Known Educator, Dies After Long Illness"
This morning, Thursday, February 29, Elijah B. Hale left off his earthly work, and answered the call of God to higher labor.
He was born June 29, 1874, at Colson, Letcher County. He was married September, 1905, to Martha Sergent, who survives him. He is also survived by one son, Herman, Cashier of The Bank of Whitesburg; one daughter, Mrs. Rosa Hale Jones, music teacher in the City Schools of Whitesburg; two brothers, Willie Hale, of Hindman, and Benton Hale, of Crossfiled, Tennessee, and one sister, Mrs. W. E. Cook, of Whitesburg, and a host of relatives and friends.
He was a teacher for forty-five years in the Common and High Schools of Letcher County, except four years in which he served as County Superintendent. While acting in this capacity, he advanced and raised the standard of education. He selected the best teachers that he could get. He brought them together in Institutes and County Fairs. At one time he brought about 75 to 100 boys and girls from all parts of the County, secured homes for them in the town and had a great day for the schools as the products of the County were displayed and prizes given for the best in handcraft, fruits, etc.
He believed in thorough preparation and qualification for teaching. He was graduated from Whitesburg High School and held an A. B. degree from Eastern State Teachers College. He taught by precept and example, the highest ideals of character. He was fearless, honest and brave in the discharge of all his duties. He helped to prepare many boys and girls for their life work, and many now remember the kind expression, encouragement and advice that fell from his lips while they were his pupils. He was a man of great patience. In fact as "Holy Writ" says, he added to his temperance, patience, patience, which all good teachers must exercise.
He was a leader in the cause of righteousness and morality. He believed in God and His Son, the Saviour of the world. He was a Bible reader, Sunday School worker and church attendant. He set an example of prudence, thrift and economy in business, yet he was ready to give to a good cause.
He has left a stainless record, and the result of his services in School will live long and bear fruit in Letcher. "His works do follow him."
Funeral services will be held Friday at 2:00 o'clock at the Presbyterian Church.
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