Randy Lee Hatley

Randy was born on October 10, 1961, in Albemarle, North Carolina. He graduated from Garinger High School in Charlotte, NC, in 1979. On September 27, 1989, he joined the Charlotte Fire Department, following in his father’s footsteps. He honorably served the citizens of Charlotte for 25 years before retiring on October 18, 2014.

Randy was a man who loved life, family, and good times with the people around him. He enjoyed watching the Atlanta Braves, Carolina Panthers, and NASCAR, as well as cooking, fishing, building, and fixing anything he could get his hands on. He also enjoyed playing baseball and softball for Eastway Baptist Church and later for the Charlotte Fire Department. Above all else, he cherished spending time with his children and family.

Music was always close to Randy’s heart. He loved beach music—especially The Beach Boys—as well as country music, with “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” being one of his favorites.

Randy also loved telling jokes. Whether it was one he made up himself, heard on The Big Show with John Boy and Billy, or borrowed from one of Joel Osteen’s opening jokes, he always enjoyed making people laugh.

Those who knew Randy well knew him by several nicknames, including “Ratley,” “Rat,” “Big Daddy,” and “Randy Buffett.” The last came from his love of wearing Hawaiian floral bathing suits during the summer instead of regular shorts—a signature style that brought smiles to those around him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward Alton Hatley and Helen Cagle Hatley.

Randy is survived by his children, Dalton Matthew Hatley and Casey Hatley True (Michael), and a granddaughter on the way. He is also survived by his sisters, Peggy Sue Russell (Ronnie) and Lori Ann Sinclair (Brooks); his niece and nephew, Heather Russell and Danny Russell; and great-nieces Addisyn and Kylee.

Visitation and memorial services will be held on March 14, Saturday morning, at Eastern Hills Baptist Church.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Randy’s honor to the Charlotte Regional Fire Foundation, 500 Dalton Ave., Charlotte, NC 28206.

Randy’s legacy of service, laughter, and love for his family will live on in all who knew him.