Through the years, Hattie’s life was shaped by steady devotion and the quiet strength of someone who understood the value of showing up—day after day, task after task, for the people and responsibilities placed in her care. Beloved by those who knew her best, she carried herself with a grounded grace that made others feel supported, seen, and safe.
Hattie was a banker for most of her professional career, work she approached with diligence and pride. She later served as an account clerk for the State of Tennessee until her retirement, a fitting close to a working life marked by reliability, perseverance, and the kind of example that inspires without ever needing to announce itself.
Outside of work, Hattie’s spirit found its own music. She loved to dance and won many dance contests—moments that revealed her joy, her confidence, and her ability to turn an ordinary day into something bright. She also enjoyed gardening and arranging flowers, creating beauty with patient hands and a thoughtful eye, as if each bloom were a small offering of care.
In her final season, Hattie fought her illness to the very end, meeting each day with resolve and a steadfast heart—an enduring reflection of the devotion that defined her life.
Hattie was preceded in death by her father, Arlie McKinley King; her mother, Lottie Taylor King; her loving husband, Derwood Hammock; her son, Martin Hammock; her sister, Dellie Marie Britt; and her brother, L. C. King.
She is survived by her son, Michael Hammock (Lavada); her sisters, Shirley Stratton and Lillian King; her grandson, Joshua Hammock (Kisha); her granddaughter, Jessi Hammock (Amber); her grandsons, Brandon Ross and Brent Hammock; and her great-grandchildren, Ransom, Luka, Carlos, Jasmine, Aliyah, Kemontay, D'Anthony, Brailynn, Rian, and Raegan. Hattie also leaves behind several nieces, nephews, a loving caregiver, Tammy Hall, other extended family members and special friends.
In remembering Hattie King Hammock, those who loved her will recall a life built on hard work, sustained by devotion, and made luminous by the simple, lasting ways she gave of herself—at home, at work, and in every life she touched.
There will be a Gathering of Family & Friends on Thursday, April 23, from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM, and on Friday, April 24, from 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM, at Hermitage Funeral Home. A Celebration of Hattie's Life will begin on Friday at 2:00 PM in the Tulip Grove Chapel at the funeral home. Following the service, Hattie will be laid to rest at Hermitage Memorial Gardens.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the Hammock family by selecting "Add a Memory" at the bottom of this page.
