Donald Dwight "Donnie" Hatcher

Donald Dwight Hatcher, affectionately known as Donnie to his friends and loved ones, left this world on July 11, 2025, at the age of 72, in Greenville, NC. Born on July 9, 1953, in Kinston, NC, Donnie was a beacon of light and joy to all who knew him.

Donnie's early years were spent in the vibrant community of Kinston, where he attended Kinston High School, graduating in 1971. His passion for baseball earned him a scholarship to the College of Albemarle in Elizabeth City, NC, where he shone as a Jr, College All-American. After college Donnie began a diverse and fulfilling career that spanned construction, sign painting, cable television, and ultimately, his cherished endeavors on the water as the owner and operator of Calico Jacks Inn & Marina Inc. and Cape Lookout Ferry Service Inc. on Harkers Island, NC. He retired in 2013, leaving a legacy of hard work and dedication in every field he touched.

Donnie's life was rich with accomplishments, not least of which was his remarkable skill as an avid fly-fishing and charter boat caption. His selflessness and passion for the sea were evident in the way he shared his extensive knowledge of inshore and offshore fishing with others. Donnie was also an adventurous soul who lived tying flies and could often be found on the green, indulging in his love of golf.

Family was the cornerstone of Donnie's life. He is survived by his beloved wife of 41 years, rose Oliver Hatcher, their fur baby Zoei, his brother, Mike Hatcher, and his wife, Joan, his sister, Tammy Adams, and a community of friends and colleagues who will miss him dearly. Donnie was preceded in death by his parents, Manley Hatcher Jr., and Nina Mae Ballard Hatcher, and his sister Cornelia Hatcher Taylor, all of who instilled in him values of love and family that he caried throughout his life.

Donnie's life was a testament to his adventurous spirit, his passion for his interests, and his selfless dedication to those he loved. As we say goodbye yo this remarkable man, we celebrate the indelible mark he left on the world and the countless lives he touched with his generosity and zest for life. Donald Dwight Hatcher's legacy will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him. Rest in peace, Donnie. Your journey was one well sailed.

There will be a celebration of life help at Carolina Colours County Club, in New Bern, NC, on Thursday, July 17, from 6 to 9 pm with a casual dress code. Visitation will be held at 4322 Periwinkle Place in New Bern, North Carolina. In lieu of flowers, donations would be appreciated in his name to Shriners Children's Hospital.