CANAL FULTON – Tarrah Hale spent years helping build a downtown Canal Fulton where people felt welcomed, included and connected.
Now, the community she helped shape is continuing that work through a new nonprofit created in her honor.
Tarrah’s Torch Foundation was formed to carry forward Hale’s advocacy for individuals and families impacted by autism and developmental disabilities. The organization will focus on promoting inclusion, accessibility and belonging throughout Canal Fulton.
Hale, who co-owned the Canal Boat Lounge with her husband, Drouin Healey, also was a cofounder of Historic Downtown Canal Fulton Business Association and played a key role in revitalization efforts throughout the city’s downtown district. She died at age 39 in June 2025.
Friends and supporters remember Hale as a creative force and passionate advocate who believed deeply that everyone deserved to feel like they belonged.
“She was a light in the community,” said Leslie Wyman, president of Historic Downtown Canal Fulton. “She made people feel welcome.”
The foundation’s mission statement says Tarrah’s Torch exists “to carry forward a legacy of fierce advocacy by promoting inclusion, accessibility and belonging for individuals and families impacted by autism and developmental disabilities.”
Funds raised through the organization will support sensory-friendly spaces at community events, accessibility improvements throughout downtown, more inclusive experiences for families and individuals of all abilities, and scholarships for local children with autism.
Ann Doan, owner of Miller-Doan Tavern, said Hale’s passing was a shock to everyone.
“We didn’t get to know her for very long, but she was such a pioneer for us, for downtown Canal Fulton,” she said.
Doan said the foundation reflects the values Hale championed throughout her life, especially as an advocate for her son, Archer, who has autism.
Born at Mather Air Force Base in Sacramento, California, Hale later met Healey in Portland, Oregon, before the couple settled in Canal Fulton.
Her creativity became closely tied to downtown Canal Fulton events and initiatives, including the city’s popular Melted on the Canal festival, which features family activities along with grilled cheese and soup competitions.
Supporters like Realtor Christine Conkle of Re/Max Edge said Hale’s lasting impact extended beyond events and businesses to the sense of connection she created within the community.
“Tarrah’s Torch is about being intentional with how we grow and who we’re creating space for,” Wyman added.
To honor her legacy, community members unveiled a mural on May 16 on the east side of Archangel Tattoo & Art Gallery in downtown Canal Fulton. The poignant dedication included her family traveling from California, Florida and Atlanta to attend, as well as husband and son Archer.
Healey read a sonnet dedicated to his late wife, from his journal prior to the unveiling:
“My dear dearly departed, I wish I could resurrect my hole-in-heart wholehearted, the one I couldn’t protect.
“I venture forth built anew, Designed by fine curation, I carry forth all I do, Aligned in activation.
“Indebted for my best days, It’s where my soul will reside, I hold that love close always, That love is my greatest pride.”
Supporters hope both the mural and the foundation will serve as lasting reminders of Hale’s commitment to building a more welcoming and inclusive community for all families.
Bev Shaffer, Food & Drink reporter for The Canton Repository, can be reached at bshaffer@usatodayco.com or 330-580-8318.
This article originally appeared on The Repository: Canal Fulton launches Tarrah’s Torch Foundation to honor Tarrah Hale
Reporting by Bev Shaffer, Canton Repository / The Repository
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