James Earl Hyatt

James Earl Hyatt 

1/10/1935 – 12/26/2021 

    James “Earl” Hyatt, 86, of Bedford, Texas, passed away in his home on the morning of December 26, 2021, with his partner, of over 30 years, Kathy Holland, by his side. 

    Earl was born on January 10, 1935, in Lindale, Texas, to Rush Jefferson Hyatt and Ollie Mae Stuart Hyatt, the youngest of their 12 children. Earl served his country proudly in the US Navy as a Seaman on the USS Platte. After his military service, Earl worked in the sign industry as a foreman, eventually becoming President and part owner of Bright Sign Company, until his retirement in 1991. 

    He enjoyed watching the Dallas Cowboys, Texas Rangers, playing chess, dominoes and tending to his plants, especially hot peppers. He was mathematically proficient and a skilled card player, making him quite successful over the years. Earl loved spending time with his brothers, sisters, children and grandchildren. He was fun-loving, witty and always ready with a captivating story to share. His presence and smile could light up any room. He was a loving, extraordinary father who taught his kids the art of being assertive and to value themselves, that they mattered. He certainly mattered and was loved and adored by all 5 of his children. 

    Earl is preceded in death by his parents, 11 siblings and his beloved sons, Boris Sherwood Hyatt and James Earl Lee Hyatt. Earl visited his heavenly sons at their burial site each month until he was able to join them. 

   Those left to cherish his memory are his loving companion, Katherine Joyce Holland, of Bedford Texas; the mother of his children, and wife of 32 years, Rita Yvonne Jones Hyatt, of Eastland, Texas; his children, Rene’e Hyatt Neighbors, of Wellston, Oklahoma; Lowell Darvin “L.D.” Hyatt, of Alvarado, Texas; Samantha “Sam” Hyatt Branch, of Hoover, Alabama.  As well as 17 grandchildren, 31 great-grandchildren and 11 great great-grandchildren. Earl was deeply loved by all his nieces and nephews, extended family and friends. 

    Earl’s life and legacy will be celebrated on January 10, 2022, Memorial Service 11am-1pm, at Forest Ridge Funeral Home, 8525 Mid Cities Boulevard, North Richland Hills, Texas 76182. Military Honors ceremony will follow, 3pm sharp,  DFW National Cemetery, 2000 Mountain Creek Parkway, Dallas, Texas, 75211. In true Earl fashion, he has requested in lieu of flowers, please make donations, to the American Cancer Society. Click on the link below to make a donation in his honor. 

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