Paul Junior Hatch, 86, departed this world on July 31, 2026. A Celebration of Life will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 15, at Shackelford Funeral Directors – Crook Avenue. The family will receive friends at Crook Avenue beginning at noon until 2 p.m. service time on Saturday.
He was a lifetime resident of the Woodville Masseyville Community. Born May 10, 1940, he was the second born son to the late Pauline and Manley Hatch of Masseyville.
He was born and raised in Chester County, attended school at Masseyville and graduated from Chester County High School in 1960. He grew up on a small farm, where he spent many of his younger years working for his dad farming, cotton ginning and doing sawmill work. After graduation, he started working as an aide at Western State Hospital where he worked until his retirement.
He and his wife Donna Kay made their home in Masseyville. Their lives were deeply enriched by their absolute devotion to their many pets, each one loved and cared for as a cherished member of the family.
He loved old antique cars and tractors. He loved going to car shows, showing his 1965 black Ford Galaxie. He loved stock car racing and NASCAR. He and his friend Vernon Hickman often went to the races together on Friday nights.
He is survived by two brothers, Tony and Willie Hatch of Bethel Springs; a sister, Jeanette (Jeff) Thompson of Beech Bluff; and many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews, who loved him dearly.
He was preceded in death by his wife Donna Kay; a brother, Jimmy Ott Hatch of Morton, Ill.; and his mom and dad.
We all have a story, and his was living a simple life and being happy in the process. He was a kind person who would do anything to help a stranger or friend. He will be missed by all who know him, especially his family. “We love you, Junior! Rest in Peace.”
