Billy “Bill” Ray Hatley

Mr. Billy “Bill” Ray Hatley, 90, of Concord, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 6, 2024, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. Bill was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, and he will be remembered for his kindness, dedication, and unwavering faith.

A funeral service to honor Bill’s life will be held at 2:00 pm on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, at LIFEPoint Concord-Nazarene Church, officiated by Pastor Harold Davis. Following the service, Bill will be laid to rest with full military honors by the U.S. Army at Carolina Memorial Park. The family will greet friends at the cemetery following the graveside service.

Bill was born on April 2, 1934, in Concord, North Carolina, to the late Elona Scott Hatley and James J. Hatley, Sr. He was also preceded in death by his beloved wife, Louise Crowe Hatley; his son-in-law, Kenny Buckwell; his sisters, Martha “Lucy” Goodman and Dorothy Hatley Garmon; and his brothers, Bobby Lane Hatley, Donald Edward Hatley, and James “Earl” Hatley.

A proud graduate of Concord High School and a veteran of the U.S. Army, Bill served his country with honor. He dedicated 48 years of his professional life to the Concord Telephone Company as a commercial line installer, contributing to many large commercial projects across Cabarrus County. After retiring, Bill found joy in working with children as a bus driver and maintenance worker at Cannon School.

Bill was a longtime, faithful member of LIFEPoint Concord-Nazarene Church, where he served his church community in numerous capacities. Whether he was helping with church activities, announcing baseball games, or calling Bingo at American Legion Post 51, where he was a member for 53 years, Bill was always ready to lend a hand. He also cherished his time spent saltwater pier fishing and being with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought him immense joy.

Bill is survived by his daughters, Niccole (Nikki) H. Little (Wayne) of Mt. Pleasant and Shanin H. Buckwell of Concord; his grandchildren, Jessica Little Rowland (Hunter), Christian Ray Little (Michal), Robert Dillon Little (Alison), Hunter Buckwell (Ronni), and McKenna Buckwell; his great-grandchildren, Daxton Rowland, Caden Rowland, Lainey Rowland, Oliver Little, Tucker Buckwell, and one on the way; as well as a number of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff of Hospice & Palliative Care of Cabarrus County for their compassionate care and support of Bill during his final days.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to LIFEPoint Concord-Nazarene Church, 2520 NC HWY 49, Concord, NC 28025.

Bill’s legacy of love, service, and faith will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. May he rest in eternal peace.