James Paul Hatcher

James “Jim” Paul Hatcher, 84, of Clayton, NC, passed away on Thursday, September 18, 2025. Jim was born December 21, 1940 to Lexie Paul and Betty Coats Hatcher.

Jim graduated from Cleveland High School in 1959. In 1961, he began his proud service with the United States Air Force, where he built a distinguished 21-year career. Jim served with honor, including time during the Vietnam War, and retired in 1982 as a Senior Master Sergeant. Following his military service, Jim worked for the University of North Carolina at Wilmington in warehouse logistics. He dedicated nearly 20 years there before retiring again in 2000.

Jim was an avid fisherman and gardener who found joy in the outdoors. A lifelong sports enthusiast, he was a loyal UNC Tar Heels fan and enjoyed cheering on every ACC team. Later in life, he returned home to Johnston County, where he selflessly cared for many of his siblings during their health struggles. Above all, Jim was a devoted family man. He lived by the values he was raised with—family comes first, and you take care of one another. His love, loyalty, and steady presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Jim is survived by his daughter, Pam Hatcher and her husband, Shawn Van Hulst; son, Keith Hatcher; grandchildren, Melissa Evans, Samantha Howard, Michelle Handwork and Joshua Hatcher and his wife, Rachael; and great-grandchildren, Ava Evans, Nash Evans, Caleb Marret, Hallie Hatcher and James Hatcher.

In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his son, James “Kevin” Hatcher; sisters, Alice Pilley, Ida Hatcher, Lois Hatcher, Billie Jean Hatcher, Betty Joe Hatcher, Sarah Hatcher; and brothers, Bruce Hatcher, Dwight Hatcher, Glenn Hatcher and William “Dickie” Hatcher.

A memorial service will be held Tuesday, September 23, 2025 at 11:00am at Bryan-Lee Funeral Home, 1200 Benson Road, Garner, NC 27529. The urn burial will follow at Oakland Presbyterian Church, 8927 Cleveland Road, Clayton, NC 27520.

Online condolences may be made at bryan-leefuneralhome.com