John married his wife, Hazel in 1946; they had two daughters, Denise and Renee.

From 1953 until 1959, John coached and played baseball in three different leagues, the Dixie League, the Ogeechee League, and the Savannah River League. He retired in 1960 due to health problems. 

In 1963, John joined the Meldrim Athletic Association. He was very instrumental in establishing a “lighted ball field” for the town of Meldrim.  During his tenure in the Meldrim Athletic Association, he served many years as president.

John began coaching softball in 1967. He coached the girl’s and women’s softball teams in Meldrim where his daughter Renee pitched and his daughter Denise kept score and worked in concession stand supporting his teams. He continued coaching until his death in 1982.  During these 15 years, he led these ladies to numerous league championships and many winning tournaments.

John had two grandchildren, Nicole and Johnny. The Christmas before his death, his last present to his grandchildren were baseball gloves. 

John Hales truly loved the game!