Michelle Hatcher-Berndt

Michelle Deniese Hatcher-Berndt

April 10, 1969 – May 17, 2026

Michelle Deniese Hatcher-Berndt passed away unexpectedly in California on May 17,
2026, at age 57. She will be remembered for her joyful spirit, generous heart, faithful
service, many talents, and deep love of family.
Michelle was born April 10, 1969, in Fort Worth, Texas, to Brenda Sherrell and Charlie
Hatcher. She graduated from Valliant High School on May 17, 1987. In high school, she
enjoyed soccer and cheerleading, earned singing and pageant scholarships, and was
recognized in Who’s Who Among American High School Students.
Michelle proudly served her country as Petty Officer Hatcher in the United States Navy.
She enlisted May 17, 1988, completed basic training, earned her rating as a
Torpedoman’s Mate Technician, Third Class, and was assigned to Naval Weapons
Station Pearl Harbor. She was honorably discharged on May 16, 1992, after supporting
Operation DESERT STORM.
Michelle continued her education with excellence, earning a paralegal law degree from
Moore City College in 1995 with a 4.0 GPA. She later studied Early Childhood
Development and Education at Oklahoma State University, graduating with an associate
degree in 2004. While pursuing business studies, she was named to the President’s
and Vice President’s Lists of Distinguished Students.
Michelle lived a life filled with creativity, service, and joy. She loved gospel music,
painting, sports photography, drawing, Native American beading, pottery, genealogy,
baking, and caring for her horses, Sister, Sadie, and Son. She served as a children’s
ministry director, joined a women veterans group, and volunteered at the church food
pantry.
Michelle is survived by her mother, Brenda Sherrell-Coles, and husband, Gary; her
children, Cody Hatcher and wife, Michelle, Brianna Murray and husband, Dalton, and
Dakota Berndt and girlfriend, Makenzie Hattey; and her grandchildren, Allison Hatcher,
Charles Hatcher, Hunter Murray, and Carter Berndt.
She is also survived by siblings Julie Hatcher, Jennifer Bush, Patrick Hatcher, and Jack
Hatcher; nephews and niece Justin Hatcher, Casey Barbour, Janelle Thomas, and
Corey Bush, with their spouses; many cherished great-nieces and great-nephews; and
dear friends Nina Mahaffey and Stacey Siria.
She was preceded in death by her father, Charles Hatcher, and bonus mother, Charlotte
Hatcher. Michelle’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.