Geraldine Hatfield, age 92, was born September 5, 1928 in Novelty, MO, to Frank S. Anderson and Florence Rhoades Anderson and passed away peacefully in her home on January 2, 2021.
Geraldine was raised in the Knox County area with her 9 siblings. She was a 1946 Novelty School graduate and was Valedictorian of her class. Upon graduation Geraldine earned a complete scholarship to Northeast Missouri State Teachers College (Truman State University) celebrating her intelligence as well as her multi-faceted sporting abilities. High school graduation and a “full-ride” scholarship were unusual achievements for a young woman in that time.
Geraldine was united in marriage to Boyd H. Hatfield in Ewing, MO, on January 25, 1947. Prior to marriage, Gerry lived as a “city girl”. Gerry embraced the farm life, working alongside Boyd. The two established themselves as cornerstones of the Knox County community. The farm, the Mount Salem Baptist Church, 4-H and fair life produced many stories that are still regaled through the family, far and wide. Gerry was quite the character, focusing on her family. In the late 1970’s the couple purchased property outside of Kirksville and resided there until their deaths.
Gerry worked for years at Matco, then Place’s. She had many friends there and loved shopping the after-holiday sales with her employee discount. She enjoyed working as a home health aide and drove her red Ranger with abandon. Her final employment was with the cafeteria at the local hospital. She was a staple there for patients, fellow employees, and physicians.
Boyd proceeded her in death along with their daughters Karrolyn Funk and Twila Yvonne Hatfield. Surviving are the couples’ 3 other children. Boyd M Hatfield (Cindy) of Quincy, IL, Vivian Graham (Rayburn) of Kirksville, MO, and Teresa Davis (Gregory) of Kirksville, MO. Geraldine cherished her 9 grandchildren with all of her heart: Spencer Funk (Taira), Norman Funk, Crystal Funk, Boyd Lee Hatfield, Jason Graham (Michelle), Craig Graham (Bridgette), Barbara Hays (Mike), Colissa Schnirch (Scott), Brett Davis (Jennifer). Twelve great grandchildren will continue her shenanigans: Jadyn, Trinity, Aaron, Gera, Satine, Nayah, Levi, Ethan, Boyd, Ronnie Lynn, Maverick, Memphis.
Pallbearers are Scott Schnirch, Mike Hays, Veldon Gordy, David Hatfield, Virgil Hatfield, Jeremiah Goings.
Honorary Pallbearers are Spencer Funk, Norman Funk, Boyd Lee Hatfield, Jason Graham, Craig Graham, and Brett Davis.
Visitation will be held Wednesday, January 6, 2021, at the Davis-Playle-Hudson-Rimer funeral home in Kirksville, MO, from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Services will follow at noon. Interment will be the Mount Salem Cemetery in Knox County, MO, where she will join her beloved “Daddy” Boyd.