Barbara Boardman Hatch

Barbara Boardman Hatch, age 83 of Gulfport, MS, passed away on September 8, 2018. Barbara was the daughter of Joseph and Gertrude Boardman, born on October 14, 1934 in Gulfport. She was the youngest of four children, and her loving family nurtured the kindness, generosity, and great sense of humor that became her hallmark and legacy. She had many fond memories of growing up in Handsboro; she attended Handsboro School and graduated from Gulfport High School where she played basketball. One of her favorite childhood memories was of the family trips to Logtown and Pearlington for Sunday fried chicken dinners at her grandparents. She often shared stories of life in Handsboro, and the challenges and sacrifices on the home front during WWII. She graduated from the University of Southern Mississippi with a bachelor of science in chemistry and a minor in mathematics – education she applied in her everyday life and professional career. The next chapter of her life as loving wife of Robert D. (Bob) Hatch for 63 years included many adventures as the spouse of a Marine Corps fighter pilot. She worked as a chemist for several years, proudly supporting America’s national defense mission. Barbara moved their growing family numerous times during Bob’s Marine Corps career, and left a part of her heart at Topsail Island and on Buckhorn Creek, NC. Upon Bob’s retirement, the family settled in Gulfport where they enjoyed raising horses and the sport of sailing. Always cool in a crisis, Barbara weathered the Mississippi Coast’s largest hurricanes with calm and courage. She managed the family’s residential construction and charter fishing businesses while raising her family. She enjoyed travelling with her sister Mary and her children and grandchildren to Europe, Canada and many corners of the U.S. As an avid lifelong fisherwoman, she could out fish the best of them. She greatly enjoyed literature and frequently exchanged favorite books with her sister and other family members. Sunday afternoons were reserved for the Saints and many other hours reserved for those Atlanta Braves. With the joy of grandchildren and great grandchildren, her home was filled with love with each and every one. She was an especially generous caregiver and excellent cook – with a warm kitchen open to many fortunate friends. Barbara is preceded in death by her parents; and siblings, Joseph Boardman and Henry Boardman; Survivors include her husband, Robert Dean Hatch of Gulfport, MS; children, Barbara (Joe) Buckley, Mary Gwen (Robert) Case, Beth Hatch, and Sharon Hodge; grandchildren, Zoe (Derek) Rico, Shella Szymanski, Robert (Dr. Hannah Gwin) Skrmetta, Dana Case (Josh Abene), Peter Skrmetta and Christine Case; great grandchildren, Gelsey Rico and Lark Abene; sister, Mary Boardman Roberts; and several beloved nieces. Funeral service will be held on Wednesday, September 12, 2018 at 5:30 pm at Handsboro Presbyterian Church, 1304 E Pass Rd, Gulfport, MS 39507 with Bobby Tyson officiating. Friends may visit 30 minutes prior. Reception and fellowship following the service in the church fellowship hall. Memorial donations may be made to Handsboro Presbyterian Church in her name. Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home, Howard Avenue in Biloxi is in charge of arrangements.