Betty Ann Hatten

Born on April 8, 1948, in Nashville, Tennessee, Betty was the daughter of the late William Hunter, Sr. and Lettie Hunter. Betty was first and foremost devoted to her family. She is survived by her loving children, Casey Paul, Elizabeth Short (Bill), and Christopher Hatten (Anita). She was a proud and adoring grandmother to Elijah Baine, Rachel Baine, Audrie Hatten, Wyatt Hatten, Charlie Short, and Mary Love Short. Her grandchildren were among her greatest joys, and she treasured every opportunity to spend time with them. She is also survived by her beloved brother, Bill Hunter, and his wife, Eva Hunter; her sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Anne and Tony McKnight; and many cherished nieces and nephews, all of whom held a special place in her heart. Betty was preceded in death by her parents, William Hunter, Sr. and Lettie Hunter, and by her husband, Jerry Paul Hatten.

Growing up in Music City, she developed a love of music and learned to play the piano as a young girl. She generously shared her talent for piano with church during services, weddings, and even her own high school graduation. After graduating Central High School as valedictorian, Betty went on to earn both a Bachelor of Science (University of Tennessee) and a Masters of Science (Mississippi College) and enjoyed a successful career in the medical laboratory field working for some of the largest labs in the south and ultimately seen as an expert in her field. She was recruited by and worked for several of the largest management consulting firms in the world. She was admired for her intelligence, friendliness, and strong work ethic.

Anyone fortunate enough to know Betty knew that one of the best places to be was around her table. She was an exceptional cook whose chicken and dumplings, meatloaf, fried shrimp, and gumbo became family favorites. Preparing meals for the people she loved was one of the many ways she expressed her love. Betty found joy in reading, shopping, dining out, traveling, growing vegetables in her garden, and, above all, spending time with her family. An animal lover, she adored spoiling her cats and dogs and always had at least one by her side. She believed in God and lived a life marked by kindness, generosity, and quiet strength. Her warm smile, loving heart, and gentle spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Though our hearts are broken by her absence, we find comfort in the countless memories she gave us and in the enduring love she leaves behind. Her legacy lives on in her children, grandchildren, and all those whose lives were made better by knowing her.

A memorial service celebrating Betty's life will be held on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at Woodbine Funeral Home- Hickory Chapel 5852 Nolensville Rd. Nashville, TN 37211.

Family and friends are invited to gather in celebration of a life well lived and a woman who will be forever loved and deeply missed.

Visitation will begin at 11 am. Service will be at 2 pm.

Memorial contributions may be sent in Betty's memory to the Alzheimer's Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60601 or via alz.org