Robert Eugene Hatchel

Robert Eugene Hatchel, affectionately known as Bob, passed away peacefully at the age of 88 on December 15, 2025, at his residence in Silver Spring, Maryland. Born on June 17, 1937, Bob was the sixth of ten children born to Owen Delong Hatchel, Sr., and Tempie Sawyer Hatchel. His early years were shaped by a large and loving family, laying a foundation for a life marked by dedication, service, and commitment to those around him.

The Early Years

Bob was raised in Maribel, North Carolina, surrounded by brothers and sisters. His formative years were enriched by the presence of a large family, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie. During his youth, Bob cultivated a strong interest in reading, music, and dancing—passions that would remain with him throughout his life and continue to bring him joy in later years.

Upon graduating from Pamlico Training School, Bob continued his education at Johnson C. Smith University, choosing to major in French. While at Johnson C. Smith, he took advantage of opportunities to study abroad, spending time in Paris, France, and at St. Lawrence University in Ottawa, Canada. These experiences abroad not only enriched his academic journey but also ignited a lifelong passion for travel that persisted throughout his life.

Career and Family Life

After graduating with honors from Johnson C. Smith University in 1960, Bob began his professional journey by relocating to Savannah, Georgia. There, he taught French in the Savannah Public Schools, sharing his passion for language and education with his students. It was in Savannah that Bob met Katie Williams, who would become the love of his life. Their paths crossed on September 1, 1960, marking the beginning of a meaningful relationship. After a year of courtship, they became engaged on September 1, 1961. Exactly one year later, on September 1, 1962, Bob and Katie were married. Their loving union was blessed with two daughters, Robyn Elizabeth and Randi Elaine.

Distinguished Career in Education

Following their move to Washington, D.C., and later to Silver Spring, Maryland, in the mid-1960s, Bob began his teaching career as a 6th grade instructor at Cloverly Elementary School. His dedication to education led him to pursue further academic achievement, earning a master’s degree in education from the University of Maryland, College Park.

With his advanced credentials, Bob transitioned into educational administration within the Montgomery County Public School system. He served in multiple key roles, including assistant principal and various central office positions focused on Human Relations and Recruitment. As a Recruitment Officer, Bob played an instrumental role in attracting talented educators to the district.

Breaking new ground, Bob became one of the few Black principals within the school system, demonstrating leadership at several schools throughout Montgomery County. His principalships included Oakland Terrace Elementary School, Oak View Elementary School, E. Brooke Lee Middle School, Piney Branch Elementary School, and East Silver Spring Elementary School. Bob’s commitment to public education spanned more than four decades, culminating in his retirement from Montgomery County Public Schools in 2000.

Even in retirement, Bob’s passion for nurturing educators never waned. He continued to mentor both principals and teachers, sharing his wisdom and guidance to support the next generation of educational leaders.

Community Leadership and Civic Engagement

Bob’s commitment to fellowship and service extended beyond his academic and professional life. On May 1, 1959, during his time at Johnson C. Smith University, he was initiated into the Alpha Omicron Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. This marked the beginning of a lifelong association with the esteemed fraternity. Demonstrating unwavering dedication, Bob remained a steadfast and active Life Member of Alpha Phi Alpha for 66 years, maintaining strong bonds with his fraternity brothers and upholding the organization’s values until his passing.

In 1970, Bob became a charter member of Montgomery County’s Iota Upsilon Lambda (IUL) Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Demonstrating his leadership abilities, he served as the Chapter’s first Corresponding Secretary and later as its second Chapter President from 1971 to 1974. During his tenure as Chapter President, Bob guided IUL in establishing both the Iota Zeta Chapter at the University of Maryland-College Park and the Kappa Phi Lambda Chapter in Columbia, Maryland. Under his leadership, the chapter earned its first National Chapter of the Year Award, marking a significant milestone in its history.

Bob’s dedication to public service also extended into local politics. In 1982, he achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first Black person elected to serve on the Montgomery County Democratic Central Committee, a body he would later chair. Following his diagnosis with diabetes, Bob became an active volunteer with the American Diabetes Association, dedicating his time and energy to supporting others affected by the condition.

Faith was also an integral part of Bob’s life. He was a devoted member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, where he served as an usher for many decades. In addition, Bob actively participated in the Knights of Columbus and the NAACP, further demonstrating his commitment to service and community involvement. Throughout his life, he received numerous honors and awards in recognition of his service and leadership. In his spare time, Bob was an avid Washington Redskins (Commanders) fan and held season tickets for over 50 years. He and Katie also loved attending music concerts and festivals. Sometimes Bob would take his daughters and their friends.

Family and Loved Ones

Bob was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Owen Delong Hatchel, Sr. and Tempie Sawyer Hatchel. He was also predeceased by his siblings: James, William Earl, Owen Delong Jr., Annie B., Harold, John, Beraline, and Geraline. Additionally, his in-laws Roy Lee Fisher, Clara Hatchel, Douglas MacArthur Williams, and Larry Dedrick Williams passed before him.

He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Katie, who stood by his side throughout their long and devoted marriage. Bob leaves behind his devoted daughters, Robyn and Randi, as well as his cherished grandsons, Roderick “Rick” and Robert “Robby” Hart, who brought him great joy and pride.

Bob’s family also includes his sister, Barbara Ann Fisher of Stonewall, North Carolina, and his in-laws: Patricia Hatchel of Rose Hill, North Carolina; John C. (Florence) Williams of Nashville, Tennessee; Portia (Fred) Jenkins of White Plains, Maryland; Jackie (Kamila) Williams of Everett, Washington; Laura Williams Spencer of Savannah, Georgia; and Barbara Williams of Washington, D.C.

In addition to his immediate family, Bob is survived by a host of nieces and nephews, cousins, friends, his Godchildren, and his dedicated caregiver, Joyce Akyaa. All who knew him will remember his kindness, commitment, and the profound impact he had on their lives.

A Legacy of Love and Service

Bob will be missed by his family and friends alike. While we are deeply saddened by his passing, we are grateful to know that he led a life well-lived and dedicated his time on earth to the betterment of all.

In remembrance of Bob and in recognition of his lifelong commitment to service and education, the family has established a scholarship fund in his honor. Those who wish to contribute to Bob’s enduring legacy may do so by making a donation to the Alpha Scholarship & Charitable Foundation, 811 East Randolph Road, Silver Spring, Maryland 20904. Please ensure that checks are made payable to the Alpha Scholarship & Charitable Foundation, and include "Robert E. Hatchel" on the memo line to direct your gift in his memory.