Mr. Stoney Ray Hatley's Obituary
Mr. Stoney Ray Hatley, of Mt. Pleasant, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at the Tucker Hospice House in Kannapolis, surrounded by the love of his family. He was 82 years old.
A gathering of family and friends to celebrate Stoney's life will be held on Saturday, June 20, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Oakboro Park.
Stoney was born on February 14, 1944, in Stanly County, North Carolina, to the late Albert William Hatley and Maggie Louise Hooks Hatley. He was a hardworking and dedicated man who spent many years employed with Fieldcrest Cannon in Kannapolis. Following his retirement, he enjoyed serving his community as a greeter at Walmart in Albemarle, where his friendly smile and welcoming personality brightened the day of countless customers.
A man who loved the outdoors, Stoney found great joy in gardening, fishing, and hunting. He also devoted time to coaching girls' softball at Ridgecrest, where he made lasting memories and positive impacts on the lives of many young athletes.
Stoney's greatest treasure was his family. He shared more than sixty years of marriage with the love of his life, Carolyn Jeanette Green Hatley. Their enduring partnership was a testament to devotion, faithfulness, and love.
Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife, Carolyn Hatley; daughters, Paula H. Hartsell and husband, Dennis, of Oakboro, and Karen H. Linker and husband, Jason, of Albemarle; grandchildren, Abby Hinson and husband, Daniel, of Stanfield, Dustin Hartsell of Oakboro, Jordan Linker of Albemarle, and Bethany Dybick and husband, Jarett, of Wadesboro; and great-grandchildren, Ryder Hinson, Kellan Hinson, Ellie Hartsell, and Dacesyn Hartsell.
Also surviving is his faithful companion, Pepper, affectionately known as his "other daughter," who brought him much comfort and companionship through the years.
In addition to his parents, Stoney was preceded in death by his great-grandson, Talin Hinson, and his brother, Tex Hatley.
Stoney will be remembered for his hardworking spirit, his love for the outdoors, his dedication to his family, and the kindness he shared with everyone he met.
What’s your fondest memory of Stoney?
What’s a lesson you learned from Stoney?
Share a story where Stoney's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Stoney you’ll never forget.
How did Stoney make you smile?