Thomas Earl Hatley

Thomas Earl Hatley, age 60, of Herrin, IL and Palmetto, FL passed away on Thursday, January 22, 2026 at his home in Palmetto. His passing was sudden and unexpected, and the lives of those who loved him are forever changed. He left this world far too soon, and his absence has created a space that can never truly be filled.

He was born May 16,1965 in Harrisburg, IL to William Dale Hatley and Judy Kay Hatley. His father survives him.

Tom devoted his life to serving others. His career as a firefighter with Herrin Fire Department spanned over 30 years, but the impact he made on his fellow comrades and the Herrin community are immeasurable and everlasting. He retired as Captain in 2019, and was so proud of his profession. He worked tirelessly to not only be the best firefighter he could be, but more importantly, the best leader and role model for those who came after him.

Tom was larger than life and he lived every moment he was given on this earth to its fullest. He was a giver, always putting the wants and needs of others before his own. He was the life of every party and always the man with a plan. Themes, costumes, and dressing up were never optional. He embraced that kind of stuff-no matter how silly-with reckless abandon.

He found joy in life's simple pleasures and enjoyed them fully. Few things made him happier than cheering on Alabama football, perfecting his skills at BBQ competitions, playing and winning cornhole, and cooking meals that brought people together. He loved the warmth of sunshine, the calm of the beach, and a good drink shared in even better company. Most of all, he cherished time spent with friends, laughing, telling stories, and creating memories that will be carried on by all who knew and loved him.

The love of his life was his wife, Pam, who was his entire world. Their bond was truly remarkable and unshakeable. He was her rock and her constant, and she was his whole world. He'd move heaven and earth to make sure she was happy and taken care of.

If he loved you, he was your biggest cheerleader, no matter what dream you were chasing. One of his favorite titles was "Pop" to his three grandsons. He loved spending time with them, and whatever it was they were doing-baseball, golf, flag football, academics, or just building Legos or playing Uno-he was there to support them in any way he could.

He leaves behind his wife of 43 years, Pamela Hatley, daughter and son-in-law Tiffany and Blake Dobraski of Johnston City, IL, daughter Mary Lynne Hatley and Matt Lang of Carterville, IL, and son Jordan Hatley of Gardner, Kansas; three grandsons Bennett Dobraski, Myles Dobraski, and Maddox Lang; brother and sister-in-law Lindell and Sarah Hatley of Herrin, IL, sister Janice Hatley of Sanford, Florida; mother-in-law Mary Ann West of Herrin, IL, nephew Luke Hatley; and a host of special friends in Illinois and Florida that became his "framily".

He was preceded in death by his mother Judy Kay Hatley; great grandparents Troy & Gladys Blue; grandparents Iris Lea and Earl Thornton Jr.; father-in-law Ed West; sister-in-law Amy Lynne West; and several aunts and uncles.

Tom will be remembered for his generosity, his joy, his unwavering support of others, and the love he gave so freely. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched and the memories that will be cherished forever. He truly lived life to the fullest. He had more plans to make, more dreams to chase, and more sunsets to watch… Though his time on earth was cut short leaving a gaping hole in our hearts, he would encourage (and insist) that we carry on his zest for life until it's time for us to meet him in heaven.

Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, February 2, 2026 at Meredith-Waddell Funeral Home in Herrin with Pastor Stephanie Voss officiating. Visitation will be Sunday, February 1, 2026 from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment will be at Herrin City Cemetery with Fire Service Honors.