We are saddened to share the passing of Bernard Sanders, a retired member of our Hatcher Family who served the company for 18 years. Bernard began his career at Michael Hatcher & Associates in 1997 as a landscape crew member, quickly learned the trade, and became a foreman. He retired due to health reasons in 2015.
Known to many as “Nu Nu,” Bernard is remembered by coworkers as a hard worker, a trusted leader, and a kind presence who brought a smile wherever he went.
“He was a very sought-after, responsible foreman for all of our high-end residential clients,” Founder Michael Hatcher recalled. “All of them adored Bernard. He took care of the customer. He was a champion of customer service and quality in residential landscaping. We’re all gonna miss him.”
Being a Christian was an important part of who Bernard was.
“When you called him, he answered his voicemail with, ‘God is good! This is Bernard,’” said Michael, who will speak from John 11 about agape and phileo love at Bernard’s funeral. “I loved Bernard as a brother in the worldly sense, but God loves him more.”
Former employee Rose Willis remembered that Bernard always had a smile on his face, was very upbeat, and was “one of the snazziest dressers out of uniform.” Lead Commercial Admin Sherry Vowell shared that Bernard was “one of the good ones, a hard worker and always happy and smiling. He was someone who would do anything asked of him.”
Jeff Peterman, MHA’s Region Manager, Construction, remembered Bernard as one of the greats.
“He was someone who always had a smile and could take a good ribbing,” Jeff said. “He will always be remembered as an extremely hard worker, strong as an ox, but gentle and kind all at the same time. He kept great company between Gene (Fifer), Charles (Richardson), and Can Cutter (James Key), or maybe they just liked being around him. I will always have fond memories and miss his smile.”
Gillespie Funeral Home of Olive Branch has charge of arrangements. The wake will be held from 5–7 p.m. Friday, June 19, at the funeral home. The viewing of the body will be at St. Matthew M.B. Church in Byhalia at 10 a.m. Saturday, June 20, with the service to follow at 11.
Rest in peace, Bernard.
Photo caption: Bernard Sanders, left, is pictured with Founder Michael Hatcher, Charles Richardson, and James Key.
