Ernest Hateley

Ernest "Leon" Hateley Jr., 76, went home to be with his Lord and Savior after a long illness on Monday, Aug 13, 2012, with his loving family by his side.He was a lifelong resident of Chattanooga and Athens, Tenn.He retired with 34 years of service from ICI America. Leon, a master craftsman, loved his family, animals and helping others.He was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest and Nadine Hateley; brother, Clyde; sisters, Gloria Nichols Sales and Virginia Helton.He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Deanie McKenzie Hateley; daughters, Vicki Varnes, Tami Blake, Leigh (Bruce) Phillips, and Tracey (Chris) Covington; seven grandchildren, Amber Hateley, Lyndsie and Lacie Blake, Joshua and Jake Phillips, Garren and Karys Covington; three great-grandchildren, Dalton, Luke and Jasper Ramsey; and several cousins, nieces and nephews.Funeral services will be held 11:30 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 16, 2012, at Heritage Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Tommy Slaton officiating.The interment will follow in Hamilton Memorial Gardens.Visit www.heritagefh.com to share words of comfort to the family and view the memorial tribute.His family would like to extend their deepest appreciation to Hospice of Chattanooga for all their loving care and support during Leon's illness.The family will receive friends 3-8 p.m. today and from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Thursday at Heritage Funeral Home, 7454 East Brainerd Road.