Ricky "Rick" Shelton Hatten

Rick Hatten, 64, from Fort Valley, Georgia, was called from death to eternal life on Monday, October 31, 2016 after complications following surgery.

Rick was born on October 9, 1952 in Macon, Georgia to Arthur G. Hatten and the late Juanita Powell Hatten. He lived in many places growing up, but eventually settled in the Athens area, where he obtained his Bachelor's degree in Forestry from the University of Georgia (home of his beloved Bulldogs). While there, Rick met the love of his life, Karen; after a whirlwind courtship, they eloped, and lived together happily for 44 years, raising their two beautiful daughters, Jessica and Pamela. They settled in Fort Valley near his father, Art and sister, Gloria, where he continued his career with the Georgia Forestry Commission. Rick retired after many faithful years of service, but continued his love of the longleaf pine by assisting land owners with conservation plans and being part of the Longleaf Alliance.

Since retirement, his labor of love had become establishing Temple Mount Stables and managing its operations, as well as guiding new riders. Rick, or Earl Sir Richard of Rae Fen, as he was known in the Society for Creative Anachronism (the medieval reenactment group that he and his family have been involved with for over 30 years), was an integral part of the Society, not only as a Knight in the armored combat, but in equestrian activities, woodworking, and in helping to foster the ideals of honor and chivalry in all. He was quick to mentor, see a need, or play a joke, all of which left people feeling better, and was father figure to many. He was the definition of a family man, and doted on his wife, daughters, and his grandson Patrick, and was beloved by them in return. There are not enough words to encompass how larger than life he was, and how much he will truly be missed.

Rick is survived by his loving wife, Karen, daughters Jessica Turner and Pamela Wade, and grandson Patrick Turner, as well as his father Art Hatten (Beverly), sister, Gloria Dennard, nephew, Matthew Curtis Sapp, son-in-law, Jason Wade, and a host of treasured family and friends.

A memorial gathering will be held on Friday, November 4th from 7:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. at McCullough Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 5th in the chapel of McCullough Funeral Home with Rev. Barbara Koch officiating. At the family's request, burial will be private.


In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the charity of your choice or pay it forward to someone in need.


Funeral Home:
McCullough Funeral Home
417 S. Houston Lake Rd.
Warner Robins, GA
US 31088