Phillip Ray Hales

Phillip Ray Hales, 73, of Asheboro, died Monday, August 11, 2025 at his home.

Born on July 8, 1952, in Wilson, NC, Phillip was the son of the Wilbur Cone Hales and Ercelle Strickland Hales, who preceded him in death. He received a bachelor's degree from NC State University and a master's degree from Kent State. He moved to New York City and worked as a graphic designer for several marketing firms and later moved to Florida and continued to do freelance work.

Phillip was an accomplished artist who enjoyed painting. He enjoyed gardening and doing yard work. Phillip loved his little dog, Molly.

Surviving are his sister, Patsy Johnson and husband, Jim of Denton; niece, Sally Burlington and husband Rob of Raleigh; nephew, Adam Johnson and wife Elizabeth of Black Mountain; great nieces and nephews, Pearce Burlington, Lainey Burlington, Will Johnson, Emme Johnson; and his dearest friend, Kate Moran of Boca Raton, Florida.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-9959.

The family would like to expess their deep appreciation to Phil's next door neighbor, Teresa Campbell, for all her help over the last two years.