Mr. John Henry Hatchett

John Henry Hatchett, known affectionately as John to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on November 2, 2024, in Saginaw, Michigan, due to a myocardial infarction. He was born on March 26, 1949, in Union Springs, Alabama, to the late Columbus and Annie Bell Hatchett. John’s life was a testament to the values of love, generosity, and resourcefulness, which he embodied until his last day at the age of 75. A dedicated and hardworking man, John spent many years as a forklift driver for Haines City Citrus Growers, where his reliability and strong work ethic were known to all. His colleagues not only respected John for his commitment to his work but cherished him for the camaraderie and warmth he brought to the workplace every day. In his leisure, John was an avid football fan, cheering on his favorite teams with the same passion he approached life. He also found solace in fishing, a pastime that allowed him to enjoy the serenity of nature and the simple pleasures of life. John's hands were rarely still, as he was always fixing something around the house or helping a neighbor in need. His ability to turn his hand to almost anything was a trait that earned him the affectionate nickname "the handyman" in his circle. John's benevolent nature, his skillful hands, and his generous spirit left an indelible mark on those who knew him. He was the sort of man who was always ready to lend a hand or support a friend in need. As Mahatma Gandhi once said, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others,” a sentiment that John embodied through his actions every day. He is preceded in death by his parents, Columbus and Annie Bell Hatchett, his siblings, Daris Marlow, Calvin Hatchett, Annie Allen, Carrie Holmes, Mary McCall, Bertha Hatchett, Jessie Hatchett, and Clarence Hatchett. John leaves behind his wife Gloria Hatchett; they were separated but remained connected through their shared history and family. John’s legacy continues through his children, John Jackson, Janon Nelson (in loving memory), Johnta Hatchett, and Ashley Hatchett, with whom he shared an unbreakable bond and an endless reservoir of love and pride. His role as a grandfather to Tiyah Reed, J’Nyla Jackson, Johntae Hatchett Jr., and Journi Faith Wilson brought him immeasurable joy. The twinkle in John’s eye shone brightest when he was playing with his grandkids, a testament to his enduring love and youthful spirit. He is survived by his sister, Johnnie Mae Baskin, with whom he shared a lifetime of memories and a deep, unspoken understanding that only siblings can truly know. John's life was a tapestry of heartfelt connections and shared experiences, both big and small. His loving and generous nature was the cornerstone of his existence, shaping every interaction and every relationship. Through his life, he demonstrated an exceptional capacity for joy, a kind-hearted spirit, and the simple pleasure of being truly present with those he loved. As we bid farewell to a man of honor, kindness, and laughter, we hold tight to the cherished memories that will continue to light up our lives with his spirit. John Henry Hatchett will be deeply missed, but the love he shared with us all will forever be etched in our hearts. Memorial service will take place at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, November 15, 2024 at Evans & Browne's Funeral Home, 441 N. Jefferson Ave., Saginaw, MI 48607.

Mr. John Henry Hatchett

March 26, 1949 - November 2, 2024