Ralph Hatley

Ralph James Hatley, 93, of Locust, NC passed after a brief illness early Tuesday evening, December 19, 2017 at Tucker Hospice House in Kannapolis, NC with his family by his side.

Mr. Hatley was born, Thursday, September 25, 1924 in Stanly County, NC to the late John Freelan and Lula (Artlie) Hatley.

On January 21, 1956 in Locust, NC he married his loving wife of 45 years the former Carrie L. Huneycutt who passed, September 4, 2001.

Mr. Hatley was self-employed as a farmer all of his life and had proudly served his country in the United States Army during WW II where he was recipient of the "Purple Heart" before his was honorably discharged in 1946.

He leaves behind to treasure his memory his three loving sons, Ronnie J. (Lore) Hatley, Jody L. Hatley and Ricky (Shannon) Hatley all of Locust, NC. Also surviving are his four devoted grandchildren, Valorie, Stoney, Kelly and Renae and one surviving sister, Doris H. Huneycutt of Locust, NC. He is preceded in death by his beloved brothers, Marvin, Floyd, Loyd, H.D., Flave and Horace.

The family will receive guests Thursday evening from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Hartsell Funeral Home of Albemarle. Funeral services will be 3:00 p.m. Friday, December 22, 2017 at Mission Baptist Church, 12444 Mission Church Road Locust, NC. with Rev. Jeremy Hyde and Rev. Ronny Russell officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery with full military honors to be conducted.

Memorial contributions may be made on behalf of Mr. Hatley to Mission Baptist Church Cemetery.

Ralph will be forever missed by his loving and devoted family and many close friends. May God grant him eternal rest.

Arrangements for Mr. Hatley are in the care of Hartsell Funeral Home, 522 North 2nd. Street Albemarle, NC 28002. Online condolences may be shared at www.hartsellfh.com.