David Lee Hatley

Mr. David Lee Hatley, age 88, of Lone Grove, passed away at his home on December 19, 2025. He was born on May 18, 1937, in Ardmore, Oklahoma, to the late Robert Lee Hatley, Jr. and Mable Novis (Hitt) Hatley.

David was raised on a dairy farm and pursued his education at Plainview Schools. He married Jean Cox on May 25, 1957, and furthered his studies at Murray State in Tishomingo, later transferring to Central State in Edmond, where he earned his Bachelor's degree. In 1965, David embarked on a fulfilling teaching career, beginning at Gene Autry, continuing at Graham, and later serving the community of Lone Grove until his retirement in 1990. Alongside his teaching and coaching, David enjoyed farming and raising cattle in Lone Grove. He was an active member of the Lone Grove First Baptist Church.

David is preceded in death by his parents, his son Mark Hatley, and his granddaughter Sherry Pelton. He is survived by his beloved wife, Oletha Hatley, of the home; his sons, Roger Hatley of Lone Grove, Carl Hatley and wife Vanessa of Bakersfield, CA, and Phillip Hatley and wife Donna of Lone Grove; his brother, Larry Hatley of Ardmore; as well as six grandchildren: Cory, Joshua, Annemarie, Natalia, Phillip Craig, and Jared; and nine great-grandchildren. He will be greatly missed by a host of family and friends.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 A.M. on Saturday, December 27, 2025, at the First Baptist Church of Lone Grove, with Rev. Bill Black officiating. Interment will follow at Lone Grove Cemetery. The services are entrusted to Alexander Gray Funeral Home in Wilson.

Visitation will take place on Friday evening from 6:00 to 7:00 P.M. at Alexander Gray Funeral Home in Wilson.

Pallbearers will include Sea'n Pierce, Michael Fields, Cory Hatley, Joshua Hatley, Phillip C. Hatley, and Jared Hatley.

Memories and condolences may be shared at www.alexandergrayfh.com.