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.