Hal McMahan Worth was born March 24, 1925, in Sevierville, TN. After battling a long illness with dignity and grace, he died peacefully at home in Lake City, FL, on the morning of May 2, 2012, surrounded by his family. He was predeceased by his loving parents, George Washington and Elizabeth (McMahan) Worth, sister Mary Marie Worth, and brother J.A. ""Nub"" Worth. He is survived by his wife Emma Lou (Herlong) Worth; sister Nell (Worth) Runyan (James) of Sevierville, TN; son George W. ""Bill"" Worth (Linda) of Chesapeake, VA; Betsy (Worth) Ward (Larry); 4 grandchildren: Jacob Hill, Ginger Hill, Stefanie Ward-Cerny (Mark), and Kelly Rippard (Jason); and 2 great grandchildren: Alyssa Hill and Emma Hill.
In 1948, Mr. Worth graduated with a BA degree in Sociology and History from Lincoln Memorial University, Harrogate, TN, followed by a Master's degree in Education Administration from Western Carolina University, NC, in 1969. Mr. Worth arrived in Lake City in February 1948, and began working for the Florida Department of Public Welfare, where he met Emma Lou Herlong. They wed December 4, 1948. Their marriage of 63 years was and remains a shining example of the comfort and happiness created through a devoted partnership. Together they reared two children. Mr. Worth was an attentive and caring father. He instilled by example the simple pleasures of nature, family, and friends. Mr. Worth often expressed his love through his craftsmanship, making toys, furniture, and masterful repairs. Mr. Worth later worked for the family business, Herlong Station, then began his career in education, where he became a beloved teacher and mentor. He taught English and History at White Springs High School, and afterwards was promoted to principal of South Hamilton Elementary School. Mr. Worth never knew a stranger since he always enjoyed talking with people, and had a knack for seeing the best in others. After retirement, he and his wife traveled extensively in 49 states and Canada.
The family invites all to a visitation on Monday, May 7, at the First United Methodist Church, 973 S. Marion Ave., Lake City, FL, 32025, at 3:00 pm. Memorial services will be held just after at 4:00 pm, with fellowship and refreshments immediately following, all at the church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Hamilton County Public School Education Foundation (Scholarships), 4280 SW County Rd. 152, Jasper, FL 32052; Haven Hospice, 4200 NW 90th Blvd., Gainesville, FL 32606; or ""Keeper of the Flame Fund,"" First United Methodist Church. Arrangements are under the direction of GATEWAY-FOREST LAWN FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORY, INC. 3596 S. US Hwy 441, Lake City, FL (386-752-1954). Please send words of love and comfort to the family at www.gatewayforestlawn.com.