Dale Henry Divis, age 83, of the Hot Rock community, after a long illness, passed away into the welcoming arms of God on Sunday, October 26, 2025, surrounded by his loving and supportive family. He was born on December 21, 1941, in Camden, N.J.

He graduated from Collingswood High School (NJ) in 1960 where he participated in student government activities and was Vice President of his senior class along with being voted "Most Dependable"; that quality was kept all of his life. Dale also wrestled in his high school's state champ collegiate team. His coach, an Olympic alternate, nick-named all of his athletes: Dale affectionately became known as "the bull", obviously playing on his unusual physical strength.

He graduated from Rutgers University, with a B.S. in Physics, and a M.S. in Physics from Texas Christian University completed his scholastic endeavors. His lifework totally involved his curiosity and love for science and all that it encompassed, many times surpassing the understanding of his family, for sure!

Marriage and two wonderful children later found the family enjoying a hill farm in Lincoln County TN, conducive to cattle and the nurturing of a tree farm. Fun hobbies for Dale included creating a large display with his childhood Lionel trains, "blowing things up"-LOL, walking in the woods doing T.S.I. (Timber Stand Improvement), and enjoying his high- powered/high energy internal combustion engine- making his '67 Dodge Coronet R/T-GO! Taking it to a track and "opening it up" put a smile on his face. Revving up his engine on the open road also gave him the same thrill! Look out! Whoops, that wasn't to be told! After retiring from a life of scientific research and development as a sub-contractor for the U.S. Army Missile Command, Dale's emphasis was to invest and council the next generation about planting, care and harvesting of trees, becoming stewards of His creation. "In the heart of the woods, his purpose is found." From that interest, he helped to establish Fayetteville's Elk Valley Forestry Association (EVFA), a local chapter of the Tennessee Forestry Association (TFA), joining more than 30 local forestry groups in the state of TN, committed to improving forest care, use, and sustainability. He was gifted the "Tallest Tree Award" in 2006 in recognition and appreciation for his service in EVFA's formation.

In contrast to his complex scientific understanding, he had a simplistic faith of how we should receive God's kingdom and abide with Him- with total dependence, trust, love, sincerity and of course, joy. Dale was a member of Fayetteville First Baptist Church.

He is preceded in death by his parents: Henry J. and Evelyn S. Divis and brother: Richard Divis.

Survivors include his beloved wife: Marjorie (Midge) Ledyard of 56 years; daughter: Katie Wheat (Michael); son: Bryan (Ashley); five grandchildren; three great grandchildren; brother: Wayne Divis (Lou); sister-in-law: Mary Lou Hamilton (Robert); and many cousins, nephews and nieces. He truly loved his family and extended family members.

Per family wishes there will be a private graveside service with Jeff Siefert and Rev. Allan Shedd officiating.

In honor and memory of Dale, plant a tree and watch it grow! In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Elk Valley Forestry Association, c/o Laura Qualman, 296 Cozy Cove Rd, Winchester, TN 37398.

Our family wishes to thank the staff at Lincoln Medical Home Health and Hospice for their devoted care and compassion to us all!

"The pain of love is loss, but it's the greatest gift we've been given."

Gallant-Riverview Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Dale Henry Divis.