Ruth E. Hatfield

Ruth Hatfield, 79, of North Richland Hills left this earth peacefully on Thursday, November 11, 2021. She was born on September 18, 1942, in Sumter, South Carolina, to Robert and Nellie Watts.

Ruth, affectionately known as Nanny, spent her entire life devoting it to others, most notably her children, her grandchildren, and her great-grandchildren. She taught us to love, to forgive, to get up and keep going, to not sweat the small stuff, and maybe most famously to laugh at yourself and to laugh during hard times because, sometimes, that’s all you can do.

Ruth was an unofficial mother and mentor to everyone she met. She worked as a childcare director for over 35 years. She valued the overall success of her students and instilled in them a love of learning. Her genuine devotion to the lives of others was infectious, and her employees followed suit. Unlike other daycare facilities, Ruth did not have a high turnover rate. Her employees were her family, and many of her students called her Nanny, as Ruth was also their unofficial grandmother.

As the matriarch of her family, Ruth leaves a legacy of leadership, humility, and sacrifice. She saw the good in everyone and taught others to do the same. As a friend to all, she will be greatly missed but never forgotten.  

Ruth was proceeded in death by her parents, grandparents and three siblings.

Ruth is survived by her brother, Robert Watts and wife Edna, daughter, Cindi Paschall and husband David, son Mark Hatfield and wife Terrie; grandchildren Krista McIntire, Carissa Paschall, Christopher Hatfield (Meagan), Kristina Hatfield, Lindsey Tennyson (Kirk), Severo Deluna, Jr. (Pamela), Brianna Munoz and Ashely Hatfield; 9 great grandchildren; Brileigh, Kambrey James, Hudson, Kinley, Mason, Carter, Dustin, Dakota, Miles, extended family and close friends.  

There will be a celebration of Ruth’s life Saturday, December 4 at 2 o’clock in North Richland Hills. Please complete the form for your personal invitation here