Alton Cortez Hatten, Sr.

Alton Cortez Hatten, Sr. (affectionally called Sarge, AL) of 500 Lanier Crescent, Portsmouth, Virginia transitioned from “Labor to Reward.” Alton was born on November 19, 1933, in Norfolk, VA to James and Dorothy Hatten. He was predeceased in death by his siblings: James (Jim) Hatten, Samuel B. Hatten (S.B.), Claude Hatten (Mike), Henry Hatten (Hank) Forrest Hatten, and Alverdean Hatten (Deanie). He is survived by two sisters: June Hatten Jones – Bloomfield, CT and Doris C. Artis – West Hartford, CT, sister-in-law- Maxine Hatten, Carson, CA. Alton was also predeceased in death by former wives: Ida B. Hatten and Barbara M. Hatten. Left to cherish his memory is the mother of his children, Ophelia W. Hatten, his children: Margaret Jenkins (Carlton) Portsmouth, VA, Alton C. Hatten Jr. (Evelyn) Pikesville, MD, Gentry L. Hatten (Rosemary) San Antonio, TX, Tamesha Hatten Saunders Portsmouth, VA and special daughter, Margery L. Davis (Steven), Portsmouth, VA. His legacy includes his loving grandchildren: Nykeeya Stewart (Winston), Ryan Hatten, Jessica McGlothen (Roosevelt), and Jeffery Hatten (Jasmaine). His step grandsons: Andre Sherrill and Thomas Sherrill. Great grandchildren: Keonte’ Jones, Aaliyah Hatten, Faith Stewart, Gabriella Williams, Olivia McGlothen, Romaine McLean, Julia Truitt Spivey and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. Alton was especially proud of his god daughter Dr. Rev. Joy Carrington, and special friends who always supported him: Angela Copeland, Yolanda Stoner, Cassandra Haynesworth, Ophelia Leigh, Debbie Brown Cooper, Romero and Thressa Bullock, Billy Thompson and Kenny Reynolds. Alton lived a full life and accomplished many of his lifelong goals. He served and retired from the US Army after 22 years. He completed 2 tours of Vietnam, Korea, Germany, and many duty stations in the US. While serving in the Army he received several medals: Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Bronze Star and The Purple Heart Medal. His other career paths include becoming an insurance agent, working in Norfolk Naval Ship Yard, being a Golf Coach at Elizabeth City State University, working for Portsmouth Parks and Recreation and being a bar tender at several clubs. He loved being an entrepreneur and opened his first business with his son- in-law, Carlton Jenkins, Rack N Play Family Billiards, which was a great family recreation outing. He also was the co-founder of Tidewater Youth Golf Association with Billy Thompson and spent years teaching inner city kids the game of golf. Alton loved his family, especially his grand and great grandchildren. He always wanted the highest and best for them. He loved family gatherings, birthdays, and family reunions. He also loved going to the casinos and playing Mississippi Stud. He was very neat and fashion conscience. He loved to dress and had more shirts, ties, and suits than any one you know, not to mention, over 100 pairs of socks. He also loved cowboy boots and just knew he was sharp every time he wore them, especially his navy-blue ones. Life Accomplishments Most Proud of: *His daughter accepting the role of matriarch of our family and she always worked to keep us together, supporting one another, regardless. *Tidewater Youth Golf Association bringing Tiger Woods to the Hampton Roads area in 2000, and Earl Woods, Tiger’s father presented him with the “Local Hero” Award honoring his work with inner city youth and the community. This unexpected act of kindness touched his heart and moved him to tears. *Visiting Egypt and seeing the Pyramids in person really make his heart sing. *Last but not least His 88th Birthday Drive by surprise in 2022, he had a ball and it made his year. *He was a member of several organizations: American Legion #190, Club Deporres, and before his health declined, he was also a member of United Supreme Council 33°, Alpha & Omega #9, Lebanon #32 F & A Mason, Inc. Daddy we are so proud of you, your love and memory will always be in our hearts.

Alton Cortez Hatten, Sr.

November 19, 1933 - February 11, 2023