Pretty Little Liars star Lucy Hale shared news of her father Preston's sudden passing on Monday. The 68-year-old, a lifelong farmer from Milan, Tennessee, died last Friday evening.
A 37-year career spanning Dunavant Cotton and Shoaf Farms
Preston Hale spent nearly four decades contributing to the agricultural and corporate sectors of the American South. According to the report, he maintained a 37-year professional tenure with Dunavant Cotton and Shoaf Farms. This long-standing career defined him as a "true Southern man" who balanced corporate responsibilities with a deep-seated passion for the land.
His life was deeply rooted in the traditions of Milan, Tennessee, where he was known for his love of fishing, hunting, and golfing. As the report notes, Preston was a lifelong farmer whose identity was inextricably linked to his family and his work in the agricultural industry. He is survived by his wife of 18 years, Stacy Hale, as well as his daughter Maggie Clarke Lewis, nine grandchildren, and three stepdaughters.
The "perfect" final phone call shared by Lucy Hale
Lucy Hale used her Instagram platform to honor her father, whom she affectionately called "P.. Daddy," describing their relationship as a "deep soul bond." The 37-year-old singer and actress highlighted the emotional weight of their final interactions, noting that their last conversation and phone call were both "beautiful" and "perfect."
The actress also expressed gratitude for a "parting gift" her father orchestrated: ensuring her sister, Maggie Clarke Lewis,was in town when the family received the news of his death. Hale mentioned that having her sister present during those "surreal days" was essential to her grieving process,noting that her father "knew [she] needed her."
Support from I. Marlene King and the Pretty Little Liars alumni
The entertainment industry has rallied around Hale following the announcement of her family tragedy. As reported, Pretty Little Liars creator I. Marlene King was among the first to offer condolences,alongside former castmates such as Ashley Benson, Janel Parrish, Nicholas Gonzalez, and Annabeth Gish.
A wide array of high-profile celebrities also shared messages of support for the UN World Food Programme ambassador. Names mentioned in the report include Demi Lovato, Lily Collins, Rachel Bilson, Meghan Trainor, and Jennifer Love Hewitt. This massive wave of support follows a busy period for the actress , who recently wrapped her role in Lina Roessler's upcoming film, Princess.
Uncertainty regarding the cause of Preston's sudden Friday death
While the family has shared many touching details , the specific medical circumstances of Preston's passing remain unclear.. The obituary indicates that he passed away "suddenly" last Friday, but no specific cause of death was provided in the initial reports.
Furthermore, while the family is preparing for a funeral in Milan, Tennessee, this Wednesday, it remains to be seen how the actress will manage her public responsibilities moving forward. This personal loss comes at a transitional time for Hale, following the completion of her latest film project about a relationship-sabotaging bulldog.
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