Barbara Jean Hatcher

Barbara Jean Cohen Hatcher, affectionately known as Jean, peacefully passed away Wednesday, July 3, 2024 in Winnfield, LA. Born on Christmas Day, 1937 in Longview, TX, Jean was the cherished daughter of Albert and Mary Elaine Cohen.
Jean graduated from Grand Chenier High School in 1954. With a passion for education, she pursued and earned a bachelor's degree in education from Northwestern State University in 1983. Education was always close to her heart; prior to completing her degree, she was a dedicated homemaker, lovingly raising her three sons. Afterward, she began her impactful teaching career in Winn Parish, which culminated at Winnfield Senior High School, where she taught until her retirement in 2008. Jean's influence on her students and her community was profound and lasting.
In 1957, Jean married the love of her life, Alfred Carroll Hatcher. Together, they built a life centered on family values and community service until Carroll's passing.
Jean is survived by her three sons: Benny Hatcher (Sheryl) of Natchitoches, Kevin Hatcher (Gena) of Winnfield, and Kenny Hatcher (Carrie) of West Monroe. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Shelley Minor, Truett Young, Joshua Hatcher, Brandon Hatcher, Cliff Hatcher, Kacie Smith, Amanda Hubbard, Hailey Hatcher, Ian Hatcher, Caleb Bacle, Anna Hatcher, and Catie Hatcher. She was also blessed with 14 great-grandchildren, who were the light of her life. She is also survived by two nephews, Greg and Mike as well as three nieces, Kelly, Missy and Pam.
Jean was a member of the First United Methodist Church, where she found spiritual fulfillment and a community of friends. Her commitment to service extended to the teaching sorority ADK and the Red Hat Society, where she was a cherished member.
Her passion in life was most notably her family. Raising three boys prepared her for her true joy: her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Jean delighted in traveling to their various activities throughout their childhood and into their adult years-her support never wavering. Whether it was a spelling bee, karate meet, or baseball/softball game, she was always there, cheering them on with pride and joy.
Jean was also an avid traveler, with a particular fondness for the mountainous regions of our country. She found peace and joy in the beauty of nature and the adventures it offered.
Jean will be remembered for her ever-present patience and her unparalleled ability to engage in meaningful conversation with anyone, anytime, anywhere. Her aptitude for conversation was second to none, and she loved running into former students in town and catching up on their lives. Jean's warmth, kindness, and genuine interest in others touched the lives of all who knew her.
A funeral service to celebrate Jean's remarkable life will be held at Southern Funeral Home on July 8, 2024, at 10:00 AM with Danny Keyes and John Holland officiating. Visitation will start at 9:00 AM until time of service. Interment to follow at Garden of Memories.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice, in Jean's memory. Her family finds comfort in knowing that her legacy of kindness, love, and dedication to education will continue to inspire future generations.