WILLIE B. HATCHER, age 93, of Richmond, CA passed away on Saturday, April 3, 2021. He was born in Sylvarena, MS on June 2, 1927. He was the oldest of six children born to the union of Roma and Mamie Hatcher.
As a young boy, Willie attended New Prospect School in MS. He accepted Christ at an early age, and united with Hopewell Baptist Church. Later in life, he attended Church Of The Living God C.W.F.F. in Richmond, CA under the leadership of Bishop Randy Kelley.
Willie joined the military in August 1945, and served in the United States Marine Corps. After his honorary discharge, he decided to leave MS and move to CA. Shortly after, he met Dorothy (Jacobs) and the two were married in February, 1950. They remained in this union until her departure in March 1998. To this union were born five children.
Willie was a loving husband and a wonderful, caring dad and granddad. He and Dorothy partially raised most of the grandchildren while their parent(s) worked. In addition, they raised three of the grandchildren after the death of their son.
Willie worked as a cement finisher and foreman at Maher Construction for over 25 years. He was very proud of his profession and would often point out areas where he helped to lay cement.
Willie loved to barbeque, cook soul food, and throw birthday parties. He found enjoyment as people would rave about the food he prepared. He also liked to video tape events and take pictures. Back in the day, he would not leave the house without his camera. Every year, he went to MS and Chicago for a month at a time to visit relatives. He and his two sisters shared the love of gardening.
Willie departed this life on Saturday, April 3, 2021. He was preceded in death by his wife Dorothy, one son, Walter Hatcher, two daughters, Theresa Ricard and Carolyn Russell, one granddaughter Holly Hatcher; one sister Rosa Turner, and three brothers- TW, Sing, and Joe Hatcher. He leaves to cherish his memory his daughter, Sharon Dyas (Arnold) of Hercules, CA, and his son Michael Hatcher of Berkeley, CA; one sister Bobbie Lee Craft of Chicago, IL; twelve grandchildren, twenty-four great-grandchildren, one great-great grandchild; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and devoted friends, especially the 49th Street Crew.
Willie will be buried following his Homegoing Celebration on Tuesday, April 20, 2021, at Golden Gate National Cemetery in San Bruno, CA.
