Donald Ray Hatmaker, Sr., age 73, of Hamilton, Ohio passed away on Wednesday, December 1, 2021. He was born in Jacksboro, Tennessee on July 31, 1948 to Claude English and Helen Christine Hatmaker (nee Douglas).
Don served his Country by serving in the United States Navy, and after a year he was drafted into the United States Army. After serving in active duty, he started a career as a Police Officer serving Green Township for 34 years where he earned the rank of Corporal. After retiring from the police force in 2004, he became a bus driver for Fairfield City Schools where he had the opportunity to serve this special need.
Don was an active member and Deacon for nearly 25 years at Community Missionary Baptist Church. He loved serving God, his church, and all people. He enjoyed teaching, singing and playing the piano at church or home.
He loved people, no matter the situation, and would always put them and their needs first. Making people laugh or getting them to smile was a goal. He believed love and laughter cures all. Don had a huge heart and was a mentor to many, and didn't even know it. The man loved his flashy suits, jewelry, and smelling good. As a pastime, he loved collecting coins with his brother, Everett, but most of all, was a loving and forgiving man. He loved his entire family, and the brothers he served with.
Don was preceded in death by his wife of 48 years, Sherryl D. Hatmaker; son, Claude Harold Hatmaker; grandson, Adrian Hatmaker; siblings, Nancy Maddock, Everett Hatmaker, Sr., Frank Hatmaker, and Claude Hatmaker, Jr.; and nephew, Everett "Ebby" Hatmaker, II.
Don is survived by his beloved sons, Donnie Hatmaker, Jr., and Joshua D. (Kristy) Hatmaker; grandchildren, Amanda (Chris) Owens, Elijah Hatmaker, Aaliyah Hatmaker, JJ Hatmaker, Jay Hatmaker, Dylan Hatmaker, Ashton Hatmaker, Caylee Hatmaker, Donnie Hatmaker, III, and David Hatmaker; great-grandchild, Grayson; sister, Sue Leach; sisters-in-law, Rose Hatmaker, Penny (Don) Harper, Connie (Allen) Spurlock; many nieces and nephews; his beloved church family; and a host of other family members and friends.
In loving memory of Don, contributions may be made to the Community Missionary Baptist Church, 4545 Forest Avenue, Norwood, Ohio 45212.
The visitation will be held for Don at Newcomer Funeral Home, Northwest Chapel, 7830 Hamilton Avenue, Mt. Healthy on Wednesday, December 8, 2021 from 6:00PM to 8:00PM. The funeral service will be held the following day, Thursday, December 9, 2021 at 11:00AM at the funeral home. Burial will follow with Military and Police Honors at Butler County Memorial Park in Hamilton, Ohio.
To share a memory of Don or leave a special message for his family, please visit the guestbook below.