It is with tears in my eyes  and great pain  that I  write this, I am just finding out about Ellen passing away last year.I work with Ellen at Arby's from 1978 to 1979,She was the most amazing person I have ever met...And I am alive today because of her,without getting into too much details,she talk me out of taking my life one night after work.I never forgot her and was hoping to see her again one day.My heart and prayers go out to her family.

I am a listener to the Basilio show and often hear W. Lynn speak so passionately of his dear Ellen.  From reading the guest book, I see that Ellen was a remarkable woman. Not only did she touch everyone who came in contact with her, but she made a positive impact on their lives.  I am very sorry for your loss, W. Lynn, Katherine and the entire Hatcher and Hilty families. You are in my prayers.

I lived next door to Ellen in our early elementary school years and often wondered where she and her family were now. We were both Knox County School teachers and never crossed paths.  My heart goes out to Jim, Happy, and her brother.

Dear Jim and family,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I know it is a very difficult time for you and your family. You have been and will continue to be in our thoughts and prayers. Our love to you, James and Cathy and deepest sympathy to you, your parents and the rest of your family. Carol and Bruce

I knew Ellen at Bearden High School and UT and worked with her at Arby's. I thought the world of Ellen and am terribly saddened by her passing. My prayers go out to her and her family.

Ellen is my Alpha Chi Sister and friend for life.  She is one of those friends that if  you have not seen in years, you could pick up right where you left off.  I have many fond memories of our years at UT and sorority life.  I am just heartbroken an my thoughts and prayers are with Lynn and Katherine

I knew Ellen through Delta Kappa Gamma.  She and I attended state conference together where we became close.  She was such an encouragement to me and I will miss her.  I am so sorry for you loss and I will remember you in my prayers.

I worked with Ellen at Oakwood and Christenberry.She always had such a calm manner and wonderful smile.My prayers are with you during this difficult time.

Very, very sorry to hear this.  I wish I knew exactly what to write but I don't, except that my heart goes out to all family and friends.

I went to high school with Ellen. She was always so sweet and joyful. I am so sorry for your loss and will keep your family in my prayers.
Kim Detwiler (Fayetteville, GA)

I worked with Ellen at Christenberry. She always had a smile on her face and was so kind to everyone . Your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Lynn and daughter, Katherine: I am remembering you during this difficult weekend-Mother's Day. Although I did not know Ellen, I am praying for and thinking of you as you Celebrate the Life of your Wife and Mother. -Joy E. Wynn, Lynn's childhood neighborhood

I have the fondest childhood memories of Ellen. I remember playing at her parent's house. She was an extra special person. My thoughts are with Jim, Happy & Jimmy and your entire family.

Ellen's love and compassion lit up the room when she entered.  I feel so very blessed to have known her and the many children that had a better life because of her. May her light shine now with God and the other angels.

To Ellen's family.I worked with Ellen at Oakwood.  Our rooms were next to each other as I was also a Special Ed.  teacher.We had some really hard times together but some great laughs. I remember when she first found out she was pregnant and the day she came back to work after her leave.I don't know what happened to her.I am devastated. She was the most devoted teacher and mom I ever knew What a class act! My prayers are with you all. I wanted her to know that I kind of adopted one of her 4th graders and her children. That would have made her so happy.Much love to you all.Ellen will always be forever in my heart. Her life touched and nurtured so many children?

Lynn,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your daughter at this time of great loss.  
Sincerely,
Beverly and Mark Lochhead
First United Methodist Church

     Dear Hilty's, 
No words from me can erase your sorrow and grief.  I can only hope you gain some solace from all the loving words written about Ellen.  I am enough older that I really didn't know Ellen well, but I remember you all with fondness.
     My thoughts and prayers are with you.  Please do not hesitate to ask any of the Ragsdale family for any help we may be able to offer.
     Frank Ragsdale

Dear Lynn and family,I'm very sorry to hear of your loss.After working with you for so long I know this must be a total shock.I'll keep you and your family in my prayers.  Scott Carter

Our sympathies and prayers to Jim, Hap, Jimmy and the Hatcher's.  So sorry to hear of her passing.  Will always remember playing at Aunt Margaret's on 3rd street in Rittman.  The Grabers- Mark, Donna, Erin, Matt and Megan.

May many, many prayers be with Katherine on this mother's day. Your mother loved you dearly!

I have met very few women who would match the sincerity, love, and kindness that I saw in Ellen.  We worked together at Christenberry Elementary and she was always an inspiration to me.  So many times I talked to her when I was depressed or distressed and she helped me focus on what was good.  Happy, you were the nurse that helped me so much when my daughter, Mary Catherine Arning, was born.  My children's grandparents, Vic and Kat Arning, lived in Westwood, too, and the children always enjoyed your egg tree at Easter.  Ellen and I often talked about what a small world it was when we met as teachers.  I feel so fortunate because I ran into Ellen a few months ago at the doctor's office.  We were so thrilled to see each other as I had moved away about 12 years ago.  We talked and caught up on our lives. As always, her smile lit up the entire reception room and certainly brightened my day.  Little did I know what the future would bring.  To all her family, I want you to know that I will keep you all in my prayers.  I know Ellen would want you to try to continue to live life as she did.  She was so respected and loved.  I know my life was blessed because I was privileged to know such a wonderful lady. When my time comes and I die, I know that if I see Ellen Hatcher, then indeed I will be in heaven!

Ellen greeted me with a warm smile and welcome on my first Sunday at St Marks and ever Sunday thereafter.  I came as a stranger on that first visit and she made me feel at home even with the first brief encounter.  My most heartfelt condolences to her   family.

Dear Hatcher Family:
I am so sorry for your loss.
I have known Ellen for eight years. She is the kindest and most genuine person.  Ellen always had a smile or kind greeting for me. As walking down the halls of Christenberry Elem. Sch. it won't seem the same. The whole Christenberry family will miss Ellen.There surely will be a void in my life.  I am blessed to have known her. 
             Lorraine Franklin

sorry I am out of town. I will surely miss Ellen as she sat across the aisle up three pews and I always loved her smile and cheery "hello". May God bless you and Kathryn.

Rica Swisher, Knoxville

Lynn,

My deepest sympathy to you and the families and friends, on the passing of Ellen. I have fond memories of you and Ellen. I know she will be greatly missed.

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Dear Lynn, Kathryn & Families of Ellen:
Our heart felt condolences go out to you all during this most difficult time.  Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.  Ellen touched so many lives and will be greatly missed by all.  May God be with you.
Sincerely,
Dave & Pam Cross,
Your Friends at UPS

Ellen had the perfect combination of kindest and strength.  I liked talking with her because her smile made me feel welcome and also made me feel like everthing was going to be alright no matter what the situation.  I can't count how many times my wife and I have been riding home from church and started talking about how wonderful Ellen and Lynn both are.  I am in shock and have trouble believing this is really happening.  My prayers are with Lynn, Katherine and the rest of the family.  My hope is that one day everyone who loved Ellen will be reunited with her and that we will never have to say goodbye again.

May the Lord wrap his loving arms around this family to help them heal and learn to cope during this time of sadness. Rejoyce for the ulitemate touch Ellen has left with all with the special gifts she shared so freely.Her loss will be felt by many. Our prayers and thoughts will be with this loving family. May the grace of God be with you all bringing brining peace in understanding Gods will be done.Ellen will be forever in the hearts of all she loved, watching over all from heaven.

It was an honor to work with Ellen at Christenberry. She always had a smile on her face and was willing to do anything to help others. She was so passionate about teaching kids. I am truly blessed to have known her. The world is a better place because Ellen was in it. I know she is in a better place, but she will be greatly missed everyday at Christenberry!

I am saddened to hear about Mrs. Hatcher's passing. My son attended Christenberry Elementary School in CDC from pre-school till the fifth grade. Our world has lost a blessing to our children.

I was so saddened to hear of Ellen's passing. Although she wasn't much older than I, she babysat my brother, sister and me when we lived on Pinellas Dr. Her inner beauty lit up the room.

It is with great sadness that we learned of Ellen's death.  She was a remarkable person and will be greatly missed.  We are out of town and will be unable to attend the services, but your family will be in our thoughts and prayers.  Dan and Sue Biggerstaff

Such a special woman. If my son was having a bad morning he was advised to go to Mrs. Hatcher's class to calm down. She worked so well with those children. Condolences to the family.

So sorry to hear this news.  I was also an AXO at UT with Ellen.  I have so many great memories of her, including a road trip to Memphis we once took together.  She will surely be missed.  I am deeply sorry for your loss.

When I think of Ellen, I think of her great laugh. I will miss cracking a joke with her and laughing in the halls of Christenberry. My prayer are with the family.

Our sympathy to the family of Ellen. We were friends of her brother Jim several
years ago.

Don and Jo Hinton

Dear Hiltys.....please know that the Tim Erskines will have you all in our prayers

to the family of ms. Hatcher,We had the honor of meeting her 2011-2012. Orion was a scared, frightened 5 year old who had never been in school before. He had lived a very hard life till we got legal custody of him. Ms. Hatcher along with Ms. Kathy, were so loving to him and he loved them back. Ms. Hatcher was beautiful inside and out. she will be sadly missed by all. you all are in our thoughts and prayers.may god give you the strength to get through this. pat cooper legal guardian of orion. knox. tn.

I did not have the pleasure of spending a lot of time with Ellen, but when I did, I recognized that she had a kind and gentle soul. It was always clear why Terry loved her so much.  I've no doubt he has welcomed her with open arms.  My prayer for you and Katherine is that you find comfort and peace through your faith and with the support of your amazing friends.  My thoughts and prayers are with you both.

Lynn. Kim and I are so sorry. We are praying for you and your daughter. Ellen was such a sweet and positive person. Take care.

Ellen was one of my very best friends in middle school and high school.  She was so sweet,kind and thoughtful. I enjoyed her friendship so much, and she gave me a lot of very special memories. I am very sorry for your loss.

I knew Ellen through Delta Kappa Gamma and our mutual friend, Andrea Mitchell. Ellen was so sweet and funny. Her smiling face will definitely be missed by all. - Sherrie Collins, Beta Pi Chapter

My thoughts are with W. Lynn, family, the rocky hill community, & St. Marks in this tragic loss. Your extended family is with you W. Lynn in this trying time.

I met Ellen the summer I graduated high school..in 1981...at an Alpha Chi summer rush party.  She was so sweet, it really made me give AXO a second look.  I'm so sorry to hear of her passing.

Lynn, Katherine and Family, we are so sorry for your loss.  You are in our thoughts and prayers and may God give you strength and help you make it through this difficult time.  We just don't know how fragile life really is until God reminds us how precious it really is.

Dear Lynn and Katherine,
I taught with Ellen at Christenbury. What a kind, dedicated teacher she was. I so enjoyed her stories of your family trips to Maine. God bless you.

Ellen was one of the sweetest person I've ever been blessed to know.  She was always ready with a smile and a tender heart.  She was such a beautiful person, and touched everyone she knew.
Lynn, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your daughter.

Dream tonight pretty girl.....RIP, Ellen.


Lisa Maddox Cate
Alpha Chi Omega Friend

Lynn and Family, so sorry to hear about Ellen. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.

Lynn and Katherine,
This is such a shock. Ellen was the one our family called sweet and caring. I have fond memories of our visits to our Aunt Katherine, that your daughter was named after. Then the many years Ellen was a part in caring for your mom. Now she is in Heaven with my Aunt Polly, Uncle Bill, my Mom,Lorene Hatcher and my Dad Harry. We just do not understand God's plan. Why did he take her so quick and young. May God wrap His arms tight around both sides of her family, until we all meet again.
Anrita Hatcher Ruth

Lynn, I'm sorry to read of your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Lynn, I was so sad to hear of the loss of your sweet wife, Ellen. It's so hard to understand how a loved one can be taken away from us so soon. I know that when Buster died, I really struggled with it, but in time I think I realized that God just had a different plan for him. I do know for sure that both Ellen and Buster are in a far better place than we are right now.
May God bless and comfort your family.
Your friend, Todd Skeen

Lynn,
I was greatly saddened to hear of Ellen's passing earlier this week.  She was a great women who touched many people in a postive way and their lives are better because of it.  We will keep your family in our thoughts and prayers.

Lynn and Ellen were one of the best couples and two of the nicest people one could meet.  My condolences and prayers go out to Lynn and the family!

Lynn, I was so sad to hear of the loss of your sweet wife, Ellen. At a time like this, I know it's hard to understand how a loved one can be taken away from us so soon. I know that when Buster died, I really struggled with it, but in time I think I realized that God just had a different plan for him. I do know for sure that both Ellen and Buster are in a far better place than we are right now!
May God bless and comfort your family.
Your friend, Todd Skeen

W. Lynn, this is GQF.  I never had the pleasure of meeting your beautiful wife but I want you to know that you and your daughter have been in my thoughts and prayers.  I love you like a Basilio brother, and I mean that from the bottom of my heart.  I've made so many friends through the Basilio family, and that's what we are.  A family.  God bless you and your daughter.  I lost my mother when I was 8 years old.  You only have one mother and one father so I know your daughter is going to go through some tough times.  You take care of her.

Ellen was a foundation of my childhood with me and my sisters.  She is a wonderful girl that became a great Lady!

I knew Ellen when we were both young women in AXO. She was always sweet, kind, and had a wonderful smile. Last time I saw her, she was fretting over a sister. Trademark Ellen - always concerned for others. She was one of those rare people who are both beautiful inside and out. Peace be with you, Jalana Holliday Cooper

Prayers for the Hatcher and Hilty families!

Ellen was such a sweetheart! I truely loved to see her each time I visited her classroom. Many children are blessed to have had such a caring teacher. May your family find peace in knowing that Ellen was an inspiration to all that met her!
Patti Howard

Lynn,I am so sorry to hear about Ellen. you & your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

I just met Ellen.  In the short period that I knew her, it was obvious that she was a very special person.  She is the kindest person I have ever known.  Heaven is so lucky to have her.

Lynn and Katherine, We are shocked and saddened. If we can be of help, just let us know. Our two families go back a ways! God Bless You Both in your time of need.
Dudley and Bob Hancock families

Lynn, I am so saddened to learn about Ellen.  She was a sweet and beautiful lady.  Know that my prayers and love are with you, your daughter and your family.

Ellen was the true meaning of a teacher. She gave all her heart to her students who thrived under  her gentle care and guidance. Her outward beauty was matched by her inner beauty and strength. I never saw her waiver in her undying dedication to each student.she went above and beyond her call. We are all better people because she was a part of our lives.  She met the greatest struggle of all with the dignity and grace that was simply Ellen. Although we will never know why god chose to call her home we know that he chose one of the best.  May she shine down on us and guide us in our daily lives. Forever our friend always in our hearts.
Love,
Christine Rhodes CES

Ellen was a blessing to all who knew her. I enjoyed working with her. She was the most loving and patient teacher. She will be missed so very much.

The world seems a little dimmer without Ellen. I worked across the hall from Ellen and it's just not the same, not seeing her everyday. She was such a gentle soul and I loved seeing her laugh and smile. I admired her work with her students. The world lost an incredible teacher and a wonderful person.
Peace be with you!

I lived a street over from Ellen, in Westwood, growing up. We went to Bearden together. I remember that she had the sweetest smile and was so genuinely warm and friendly. She was such a gentle, accepting soul of every person. I spent the night some for slumber parties and she was so diligent to make sure everyone felt included. Her peace and non judgemental spirit were such a comfort. I pray you find this same peace as you go thru this grief journey.

My heart is heavy tonight.  Ellen was one of my very best friends for most of my youth. After college, life separated us.  She has been on my mind a lot lately, and it is truly my loss that I didn't try to contact her.  Ellen was one of a kind; she was generous, kind, loving, and giving.  My prayers go out to the Hatcher/Hilty families.  I was blessed to have her in my life.

It was an honor and a priviege to work in the classroom with Ellen for many years. I will miss my friend each and every day. My prayers go out to her mom, dad, Lynn and Kat.

I have know Ellen since I met her at UT in 1979 and I have been close to her and Lynn ever since. She was a wonderful, gentle, funny and classy lady. I never once saw her in a bad mood. She personified all of the qualities of a true lady. Many times I told her that she was our angel. Now I know that she truly is an angel in a much better place. I will miss her deeply. My heart breaks for Lynn and Katherine.

Lynn, So sorry to hear about the loss of Ellen. My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family.

Ellen was the most genuine and supportive person that we have ever known.  Her unconditional love for Lynn was legendary. Generations of  Kappa Alpha's coveted her approval.  When I last saw her she said, "I want two hugs...".  She touched our lives deeply and we praise the Lord for the blessings she brought to our family.

Ellen was such a blessing to our school family and as a personal friend. I will miss seeing her every day. I am so saddened by our loss. Lynn and Katherine, you are in my prayers every day. I know there are no words that can truly make you feel better, but please know that so many people on this earth are better for having known Ellen. She was one of a kind.

My heart goes out to you - Lynn and Katherine and to the Hilty family.  Ellen was an incredible friend and sorority sister to me during college and for years afterwards. She was truly one of the most sincere, genuine persons that I've ever met.  She touched the hearts and lives of everyone that she came in contact with.  She will be forever missed.

Lynn, I was so sorry to hear about Ellen's passing.  If there is anything we can do please let us.  Your family is in our prayers.  The Collins family

Lynn and Katherine....Ellen was a kind and gentle soul with a tender heart and words simply cannot express the sadness I feel for your loss. I didn't see her often these last few years but her friendship is something I will always cherish and never forget.  When Jared was born, Lynn and Ellen were right there and our kids have grown up together.  So many good memories and fun times that will last forever in my mind and heart.  You both are in my thoughts and prayers during such a difficult time.

There are no words -years of family memories filled with love & joy. The morning you called me to come to the hospital. There you were-pretty as ever-using our Fav59 (Mark Hovanic's)FB jersey as a blanket. Little did we know, Hatcher had called the TV station B/C it was the infamous 3rd Saturday in October. He thought this was a fabulous human interest story. And it was - being there with you then, seeing that sweet red head, etc  was one of the highlights of my life. I wish it had been a happy time when you called me this time. But I am honored that you wanted me there. I love you "Sister" You will live forever in my heart. I will miss you terribly. Love you so much, dkh

Lynn I am so very sorry for the loss of your wife,Ellen.There was never any doubt that Ellen was the absolute apple of your eye the way you always talked about her at work.I pray that God may keep you,Katherine and the rest of the families strong during this incredibly difficult time.You guys are in our prayers...

Lynn I am so sorry for your loss of such a wonderful woman. From reading this she was a remarkable woman. You all were blessed with her in your life... Peace to each of you.

Ellen was truly a sweet soul, always caring for others.  Her open smile was warm and inviting. She was also incredibly strong, and committed to helping others as well as befriending them.  Love to the family.  Warm regards,  Freddie Ray (AXO sister, Delta Pi)

Ellen, we had so much fun going to Kenny G and Yanni.  You were such a genuine person in all facets of your witness; how hard that is to find these days.  Lynn and Katherine how lucky you are to have shared but a portion of your life with Ellen.
  Blessings,  Debbie Clark
Christenberry Elementary

My heart hurts today for you Lynn.  My prayer is for peace for you and the family.  God Bless!!

Our deepest sympathy to Lynn, Katherine and the Hatcher family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this most difficult time. May God heal your heavy hearts. 
Doug Dodson and Family

W. Lynn, prayers and thoughts to you and your family.  I do not know you and only have heard you on the Basilio show...but I enjoy listening to your conversation.  I pray that God continue to bless you and your daughter during this difficult time.

Lynn,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
SCV Camp 87

My heart is just broken. I will always love & treasure the memories & fun we had. 
Much love & many prayers,
Donna Bristow (AXO big sis)

Ellen was my and my sisters' favorite babysitter when we were children in Westwood.  Ellen was a part of our family for many years.  Even though we have not seen her for a long time, we will always remember how much she made us laugh and how much she loved us.  We spent many New Year's Eves with her and she always made the evening into a fun party for us.  I send my heartfelt condolences to her family.  She was a wonderful wonderful human being.

To The Hatcher & Hilty Families :
May God Comfort & Strengthen All of You at this time.  Mrs. Hatcher was a wonderful friend and teacher whom everyone loved & enjoyed working with.
She will be greatly missed , but I know she is in Heaven, and we will see her again.  
With Love, Hugs, and Prayers,
Miss Sheri Crawley

Ellen was such a tremendous teacher and a wonderful person.  My thoughts and prayers are with your family and friends.

Deepest sympathies going out to Lynn and your family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Ellen will be missed by so many.  I will always pray for your family, as you lean on God to carry you through this time.  Hugs and love will always be with you.

Ginger Teffeteller
Christenberry Elementary

Ellen's coming to baby sit!!!! Great joy for the Bell girls years ago when they were growing up in Westwood.  They loved Ellen so much and couldn't wait for us to leave the house.  If it was football season, there would be a picnic  at Highland or outdoor hikes in the neighborhood.  Ellen was a very important part of their lives and  taught by example.  We were all blessed to have known her and have a huge hole in our hearts now.   Our deepest sympathy to all of her family.  Jim and Sandra Bell,  Dandridge, TN

She will be truly missed and loved. My son Jonathan was in her class not only was she a wonderful teacher but amazing woman. She stood with me in June at the hospital when he had surgery she went beyond her teacher duties for her kids and we all love her very much. Truly a sad time. She will never be forgotten and will be truly missed.

Words can not express our sorrow.  Lynn & Kat, we're here if you need anything.  Ellen was class & dignity.  I sat beside her every year at Bearden Elementary - she was always a friend.  We miss her.

To the Hatcher and Hilty Families,
I am so sorry to hear of Ellen's passing. She had a great influence on me as a young child and was my family's FAVORITE sitter. She was always fun and creative and patient. She truly was special and my sisters and I loved her very much.

Lynn & Katherine, My deepest sympathies to you.  Ellen was one of the sweetest, kindest people I have ever known. She will be missed. God bless and keep you during this difficult time.

OBITUARY

Ellen Hilty Hatcher

January 27, 1961 – May 7, 2013

Berry Lynnhurst Funeral Home

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