He was born in Greensboro, NC to the late William and Edna Hatcher. His father-in-law, Ray Cook precedes him in death.
Jerry was a hard-working, diligent and determined man, earning a Bachelor of Science in Nuclear Engineering from the University of Tennessee of Knoxville. He retired from TVA as a quality engineer after 36 years of dedicated service. During his career, he worked at Sequoyah Nuclear Plant, Watts Bar Nuclear Plant, and TVA locations in Chattanooga and Knoxville.
Jerry’s interests reflected both his adventurous spirit and his steady dedication to learning and craft. He enjoyed sailing and owned his own boat, and he loved photography. Taught by his dad, he could pilot a plane from take-off to landing before he could drive. Jerry taught himself to ice skate, and before relocating to Chattanooga, was often at the ice rink in Knoxville. He also enjoyed riding his motorcycle and loved collecting and rebuilding Porsche sports cars. For 18 years, Jerry trained in Taekwondo, earning a 5th degree black belt and winning multiple regional and national competitions.
Survivors include his loving wife of 46 years, Doris Hatcher; children, Nehtisha Rollis (Joe) and Jamie Hatcher (Alicia); grandchildren, Christina, Jacob and Brenton Smith, and Madison, Bodie and Xander Hatcher; great-grandchild, Lakelynn Hatcher; mother-in-law, Stella B. Cook; sisters-in-law, Sandy Cook-Campbell (Bob) and Teresa Perry (Rick); and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and other family. Jerry was most proud of his family, and he loved them more than anything. What a beautiful legacy he leaves behind. Our Pawpaw will be missed.
Visitation will be from 2 to 3 pm on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home. A Funeral Service will follow in the chapel at 3 pm with Pastor Terri Crider officiating.
Interment will take place at Hamilton Memorial Gardens.
Please share your thoughts and memories at www.chattanooganorthchapel.com
Memorial Contributions may be made to River of Life Church, P.O Box 9868 Chattanooga, TN. 37412 or at: www.rolc.org/give
Arrangements are by the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory, and Florist, 5401 Highway 153, Hixson, TN 37343.
