James Edward Dale, 79, of Morganton, passed away Thursday, November 2, 2023, at UNC Healthcare Blue Ridge, following a brief illness.

Mr. Dale was born on May 14, 1944, in Burke County, to the late Johnnie A. Dale and Martha Louise Whisenant Dale. A veteran of the United States Army, after service, his careers included L.T. Fender & Sons Grading and Paving (2yrs.), Life and Casualty Insurance Company (3yrs.), Golden Glow Supper Club (3yrs.), Ingolds Heat and Air (5yrs.), manager for the Drexel American Legion Post 398 for over 15 years, owner and operator of J.D.’s Beach Bingo (16yrs.) and Shondales Night Life (3yrs). He was a member of Mount Olive Baptist Church.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his sister, Betty Dale Tevepaugh; his brother, Johnnie Wilson Dale; his beloved dog, Roxie-Anna and his beloved quaker parrot, Boggie.

Survivors include his wife, Phyllis Ann Fender Dale of the home; one son, Jami Shon Dale of Charlotte; his beloved parrot, Barron; and two feline companions, Baby Gray and Patches. Also surviving are numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services will be held at 4:00 P.M., Tuesday, November 7, 2023, in the Chapel of Heritage Funeral Service, in Valdese, with Rev. Bruce Piercy officiating. Interment will follow at Burke Memorial Park.

The family will receive friends on Monday from 5:00-7:00 P.M. at Heritage Funeral Service in Valdese.

Memorial contributions may be made to Burke County Friends for Animals, 417 Kirksey Drive Morganton, NC 28655.

An online guestbook and obituary are available at www.heritagefuneralservices.com.

Heritage Funeral Service & Crematory of Valdese is serving the family.