Greenup, Kentucky - James Edward Hale III, known to family and friends as "Jay," passed away on Saturday, July 25, 2026, following injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident.

Jay was born on February 21, 1985, in Ashland, Kentucky. During his younger years, he attended Wesleyan Heights Church. He later attended Ashland Community College, where he earned his welding certificate and developed a skill that became an important part of his life. A talented welder, Jay, traveled and worked across the country throughout his career. He was a proud and active member of Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 248, where his fellow members knew him as "Pickle." He served on the Executive Committee and enjoyed playing in the Local 248 softball league, wearing #21.

Jay was someone who loved to laugh and, even more, loved making those around him laugh. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, riding his motorcycle, and spending time with family and friends. He was an avid sports fan who faithfully cheered for the Pittsburgh Steelers, Kentucky Wildcats basketball, and Cincinnati Reds. Jay also loved to cook and could often be found at the grill or smoker preparing steaks and brisket for those he cared about. He was a member of American Legion Willard Post 342 and gave his time in service to others as a volunteer firefighter with the Catlettsburg Fire Department.

Above all, Jay treasured the people in his life. Those left to cherish his memory include his loving wife, Felicia Smith Hale of Greenup; his parents, James Edward Hale Jr. and Tamara Gilbert (Curtis) Bowman of Ashland; his son, Bryson Wyatt Hale of Grayson; three daughters, Lacey Jo Hale, Emma Grace Hale, and Alexis Joan Hale, all of Greenup; his brothers, Brandon Gilbert and Christopher Hale of Ashland, Westley (Lindsay) Moore of Fraziers Bottom, WV, and Joseph Hale of Flatwoods; his sister, Bethany Dawn (Raymond) Music of Ironton; his grandson, Jayden Lee "Punchy" Gold; and his granddaughter, Magnolia Ann Leshaye Hale, expected on October 19th. He is also survived by his grandmother, Sharon Worley of Ashland; a special aunt, Joanie Hale Rymer of Ashland; and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and countless friends whose lives were touched by Jay.

Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at Steen Funeral Home 13th Street Chapel. A service celebrating Jay's life will begin at 1:00 p.m Saturday.

To share a favorite memory of Jay or to offer a condolence to his family, please visit steenfuneralhome.com.