John A. Hatley

John Arthur Hatley, 76, of Sullivan, MO passed away on Friday, August 8, 2025 at Missouri Baptist Hospital in St. Louis.
Born on March 13, 1949, in St. Louis, MO to Troy and Helen (Moellman) Hatley, John's journey began in the heart of the Midwest, where he grew up and attended school in St. Ann, MO, overcoming the challenges of polio as a young boy. His resilient spirit and zest for life were evident from the start, as he entered the workforce at an early age with his first job at Steak 'N Shake. He later worked at Northwest Plaza Mall in St. Ann and also as a cab driver in St. Louis.
John was a free spirit whose best friend, Murphy Beelek, stood by his side through thick and thin. Together, they navigated the adventures of adolescence, often finding themselves in mischief that would later become treasured memories. The Beelek family became a second family to John, fostering a bond that would last his entire life.
In the latter part of 1976, he became a father to three beautiful little girls when he and Helen Beelek became a pair. Soon after, an addition was made to the family and he had all his girls: Angela, Julie, Dawn, and Melinda. John's role as a father was one he cherished deeply, and the love and guidance he provided his children were among his most proud achievements. His love and commitment was never questioned, he continued to provide for all his children even after his divorce to Helen in the late 1980's.
Throughout his life, John held various positions, but he was primarily known for his skilled work as a forklift operator in the industrial plants of Earth City. His work ethic and dedication to providing for his family were unwavering. In the early 2000s, he moved to Sullivan, where he continued his career with Industrial Wire Co. before retiring early due to health concerns.
John's interests were as vibrant and varied as his personality. An avid fisherman, he found peace and solitude by the water. His love for music spanned the genres of Classic Rock and Country, and he could often be found enjoying the legendary performances of John Wayne on the silver screen. A fan of the written word, John delved into the worlds created by Stephen King, losing himself in the pages of his thrilling novels.
Yet, John's passion truly lay in the joy of celebration with friends and family. Whether it was partying, sharing stories, listening to music, or simply being the life of the party, John brought a unique and infectious energy to every gathering.
John's larger-than-life personality was matched only by his love for being a trickster and jokester. He delighted in playful banter and bringing laughter to those around him including his humorous bartering tactics with friends to acquire things of interest they possessed. John was also well-known for his persuasive nature, which he wielded with charm and wit. But above all, his family was his world, just as he was theirs. The bond they shared was unbreakable and filled with mutual adoration and respect.
John's legacy is one of love, laughter, and the indomitable spirit of a man who faced life's challenges with courage and humor. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him, but his memory will continue to inspire joy and resilience in the hearts of his loved ones.
John is survived by his 4 daughters: Angela Stewart of Union, MO, Julie Jones and significant other, Harlan Large of Sullivan, MO, Dawn Schoeller and husband, Tim of Sullivan, MO and Melinda Robinson also of Sullivan, MO; the mother of his daughters: Helen Holcomb of Sullivan; 17 grandchildren: Mark Dake Jr., Heather Dake, Joshua Dake all of St. Charles, MO, Austin Stewart of Raleigh, NC, Alex Stewart of Tucson, AZ, Matthew Stewart, Jackson Hoefener, Faith Hoefener all of Union, MO, Kurtis Taylor of Sullivan, Brian Taylor and significant other, Amber Fischer of Byrne's Mill, MO, Drew Taylor of Sullivan, Levi Taylor of Huntsville, MO, Jayda Eads, Elijah Eads and significant other, Amanda Oglesby, Gabriel Eads, all of Sullivan, Elli Schoeller of Baraboo, WI, Issac Robinson and Kaylynn Wade and fiancé, Daniel Wade all of Sullivan; numerous great grandchildren; two sisters, Barbara Abbott of Crane, MO and Deborah Haggin of St. Louis, MO; and numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives.
John was preceded in death by his parents, Troy and Helen Hatley, his infant sister, Mary, his nephew, Micheal Prater, his best friend, Edward (Murphy) Beelek, and his longtime girlfriend, Della R. Gurnow.
A private memorial will be held at a later date. Cremation has taken place.
Friends may send online condolences to the John's family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com
All arrangements were under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Sullivan, MO.