Harold "Hal" O'Boyle

Harold Xavier “Hal” O’Boyle, age 75, of Salt Lick, Kentucky, passed away on March 23, 2025, surrounded by his family. Cancer was the thief. His preferred death would have been a massive heart attack on the golf course or dying in a hail of bullets defending his family. Alas. 

Hal was born February 13, 1950 in Scranton, PA to Claude and Joan O’Boyle. He graduated from Tufts University and promptly escaped to Key West. After working various jobs, he started Island Advertising & Printing and hired his future wife.

After selling IAP, Hal’s pursuit of justice led him on a quest to be a stoic protector of the unprotected. He spent the next 2 decades as a consultant in the Tax Honesty Movement, putting the IRS in its place. He and his partner, Ed, earned an exceptional reputation for helping clients win against the evil Auntie Iris. 

On February 2, 1991, he married Sally Richardson. They adopted two amazing sons and shared 34 years of loving, devoted companionship. Hal was a man’s man, a devoted husband and father, and grandpa to two extraordinary kids in whom he found his greatest joy.

Hal is survived by his beloved family: wife Sally, son Ryan, grandchildren Lake and Sam O’Boyle. Tragically, he was preceded in death by his son, Morgan, as well as his parents Joan and Claude and sisters Megan and Bridgid. Hal is also survived by his brother and best friend, Brian and his wife Peggy, sister Molly and her husband Steve, brother Larry and many friends, cousins, nieces and nephews.

Known for his articulate and poignant writing, his quiet strength and quick wit, Hal was a kind soul who positively affected the lives of those around him. A memorial service was held at Newton’s Attic in Lexington, KY on Thursday April 10th. Cards and remembrances can be sent to Sally at 1619 Bypass Rd, Winchester, KY 40391.

Hal’s memory will be a beacon of light, hope, and peace and bring a smile to all who were fortunate enough to know him.

“Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and rightdoing, there is a field. I'll meet you there.” Hal is deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

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