William H. Hatcher, son of Elijah and Delilah Hatcher, was born near Carmi in White County, Illinois, on June 13th 1840, and died at his home in Hamilton co., near McLeansboro, April 11th, 1926, at the age of 85 years, 9 month and 28 days, where he had resided for the past 30 years.

He was left an orphan in early childhood and was reared to manhood in the home of the late Orlando Bremell of Carmi, Ill.  

In early manhood when the civil war broke out, he heard his country calling for men to protect and preserve the union and was one of the many to answer the call.  He enlisted in the 1st Illinois Cavalry under Capt. O. Burrell on June 19th, 1861, receiving his discharge after 13 months of service, he re-enlisted in 1862, in the 87th Reg. Inf. under Col. Whiting and Capt. Foster.  Returning home after receiving an honorable discharge July 9th 1866.  Among some of the engagements, he was in Grant's siege of Vicksburg, also the campaign up Red River and Grandachore.  

After coming home in 1865, he was married to Catherine Secrest.  To this union were born two daughters, namely Mrs. Ed Westenberger now of Denison, Texas and Mrs. Robert Denbo of Maunie, Ill.  His first wife preceded him in death in 1871 and in 1872, he again married.  This time to Susan A. Ward of near Trumbell, Ill.  To this union was born nine children.  Three of these dying in infancy and Tilla, who died some five years ago.  Those surviving besides the widow are Robert E., of Rector, Ark., Maurice, of Wayne Co., Ill. and George; Mary, wife of Charles Cox and Beecher, all of Hamilton County, Ill.

Early in life he joined the M. E. Church and was later united with the Christian Church of which several members of his family are now members.  As a soldier he was true and faithful to his command.  As a neighbor he was ever ready to lend a helping hand to those in need.  Greater love had no father than he for his children.  He was a true and faithful companion.

He leaves to mourn the above named widow and children, one step son, Mr. Fred Ward of Eldorado, Ill., 26 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren, besides a host of other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were conducted by Rev. D. H. Knight and Rev. George Leathers of Norris City, Ill., at Cartwright Chapel April 13, 1926.  Interment in cemetery nearby.