Edward Hatmaker, Sr.

Edward C. Hatmaker, Sr., affectionately known as “Tony” to family, entered into rest on Friday, May 23, 2025, at the age of 86. Born on February 6, 1938, in Jellico, Tennessee, Edward was the beloved son of the late Dana Lowell Hatmaker and Lillie Long Hatmaker.

Edward was raised in Jellico, TN until the age of 11, when his family moved to Oak Ridge, Tennessee.

After graduating from Oak Ridge High School in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, Edward answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Air Force. He dedicated 20 honorable years to the military, retiring with distinction as a Technical Sergeant from the Air Force Logistics Command at Robins Air Force Base.

On October 15, 1960, Edward married Gwendolyn E. King. During the 23-year marriage, the couple had 3 children.

Following his military career, Edward remained active in service to his country and community. He worked for several years as a civil servant on Robins AFB, including a special assignment driving the USAF military band to their performances. In 2001, he was a Booking and Transportation Officer with the Warner Robins Police Department, transporting prisoners between Dublin and Warner Robins.

Edward was a man of deep faith and service. He was a dedicated Corps Sergeant Major with the Salvation Army Church in Macon, where he generously volunteered his time, especially during the Christmas season as both a bell ringer and supervisor. His commitment to community extended to his involvement in the local Masonic lodge.

A true Volunteer at heart, Edward was a passionate fan of University of Tennessee football and proudly supported Warner Robins High football. He also found joy in hobbies such as amateur CB radio, fishing, gardening, and playing the guitar. He cherished the simple pleasures of life and the companionship of friends and family.

In his later years, Edward found happiness and companionship with Jackie Lumsden, a relationship that brought him much joy.

He was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents and wife Gwendolyn King Hatmaker.

Tony is survived by his children, Kate Long, Bambi Hatmaker, and Edward Hatmaker, Jr; his brother, Paul Hatmaker; 7 grandchildren; four nephews; and one niece.

Visitation will be Thursday, June 12, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., at McCullough Funeral Home. A graveside service will be held on Friday, June 13, 2025, 9:00 a.m at Magnolia Park, where he will be laid to rest.

In lieu of flowers, family respectfully suggests memorial donations be given in memory to Gary Sinise's foundation @ https://www.garysinisefoundation.org.

Go to www.mcculloughfh.com to sign the Online Registry for the family. McCullough Funeral Home and Crematory has the privilege of being entrusted with these arrangements.