David Hatchett Sr.

On March 6, 1942, David Hatchett began his life’s journey. He was the sixth of seven children born to Henry Ellis “Burry” Hatchett and Thelma Jean “Aunt Hun” Thomas in Montgomery, Texas. The family later moved to Houston’s Third Ward and eventually to the Acres Homes community, where he was raised and formed the deep roots that would define his life.

David received his education in the Aldine School District and was a track star at George Washington Carver Senior High, competing in the 220 and 440. It was there that he met Sarah Elizabeth Dean Jacko, a cheerleader who would become his lifelong partner. He ran, she cheered, then they married on March 11, 1960. They continued together, side by side and devoted for 66 years.

Balancing marriage, fatherhood, and education at Texas Southern University, David worked at Minimax Grocery before beginning his career at Cameron Iron Works (later Wyman Gordon) on July 9, 1962. He faithfully served the company for 51 years and 7 months, retiring on March 1, 2014. He forged friendships as enduring as the steel he helped produce and wore his service pins with well-earned pride.

David valued brotherhood and community. Alongside a close circle of lifelong friends, he helped establish the service organization Fabergé Social Set — a fellowship of men committed to creating positive experiences and stability for their families and their community during the transformative decades of the 1960s and 1970s. Through holiday gatherings at Lake Houston, beach campouts, and social events, they cultivated unity and built a lasting support system not only for themselves but also their children. Another awesome thing he was known for was his mastery at the pit. Barbecue, like life, required patience and steady care, and his smoked meats — especially his signature ribs — became legendary among family and friends. A David Hatchett rib was second to none, and those who were the recipient of one felt blessed and highly flavored.

Continuing with his commitment to the community, he later joined The Twelve Royals, an organization dedicated to scholarships, mentoring, and expanding opportunities for young people throughout Houston. David’s faith foundation was laid early at Magnolia Missionary Baptist Church under Reverend Israel Hezekiah White, where he served as a Deacon and youth leader. He later joined Galilee Missionary Baptist Church under Pastor Edwin A. Davis and faithfully served on the usher board for many years. With dignity and humility, he welcomed others into the house of the Lord until his health began to decline.

On Friday, February 13, 2026, in Houston, Texas, David peacefully completed his earthly journey. Surrounded by music and his family in person and virtually, he was comforted with words of love and gratitude. Having lived faithfully and well, he answered the Master’s call.

He leaves to cherish his memory: his beloved wife of 66 years: Sarah Elizabeth Dean Jacko Hatchett; children: David Donald Hatchett, Daniel McKay Hatchett, Davon Danette Elizabeth Hatchett Robinson (Preston Robinson) and Dennis Michael Hatchett (Tiffany Dugar Hatchett); three grandchildren: Joya Danielle Elise Hatchett, Jada Danae Hatchett and Dean Patton Dugar Hatchett; two great-grandchildren: Jaxxon C. Broyles and Jade McKay Livingston; one sister: Verna T. Hatchett Jordan (Ernest Jordan); and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents and five siblings: Lillie Belle Hatchett Dixon, Henry Ellis Hatchett Jr., Minnie Evelyn Hatchett Kennedy, Willie Donald Hatchett and Thelma Jean Hatchett LaStrap.

He fought the good fight. He finished his course. He kept the faith. Now crowned with righteousness, he rests. Until we meet again, we continue forward — strengthened by the example he set before us.

A visitation will be held on February 28, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at Galilee Missionary Baptist Church, located at 6616 D S Bailey Ln, Houston, TX 77091.

A Celebration of Life will follow at the same location from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm.

The committal service will take place on February 28, 2026, from 2:45 pm to 3:15 pm at Paradise Cemetery North, located at 10401 West Montgomery, Houston, TX 77088.