Obituary of James Maurice Hyatt

BARNARDSVILLE—James Maurice Hyatt, 87, of Barnardsville, NC, passed away Thursday, May 26, 2022 at his residence. He was the son of the late Frank W. and Hazel Rector Hyatt.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Blanche Shuford Hyatt, who passed away March 23, 1995; his son, Rickey Lynn Hyatt; granddaughter, Kelly Rickards Webster; great-grandson, Jordan Effler; a sister, Frances Hyatt Fugate; and son-in-law, Reverend Joel Raby. 

Mr. Hyatt was a graduate of Barnardsville High School, earning letters in baseball, basketball and football.  An original member of the Barnardsville Fire Department, Mr. Hyatt loved his community and was a faithful member of Pine Forest Church.  Mr. Hyatt was an excellent glass mechanic and worked several years for Pritchard Paint and Glass.  Fifty years ago, in 1972, he became ill and was disabled for a period of time.  His doctors told him he would not survive.  He vowed he would, and he spent the rest of his life farming.  He felt every day was a gift.  After retirement, he traveled all the 48 contiguous states. 

Left to cherish his love and memory are his children, Rebecca Oliver (Michael), Marcia Hyatt (Frank), Diane Raby, J. LaMarr Hyatt (Shirl), Mickey Hyatt (Cindy); daughter-in-law, Brenda Taffer Hyatt; brother, Lee Hyatt; sister, Dawn Hyatt; grandchildren, Katrina, Jeremy, Melissa, LaReesé, Chaynna, Chayse, Zephaniah, Zoi, Lukus, Sawyer and Shae; 22 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and many dear nieces and nephews.    

His funeral service will be held 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 1, 2022 in the Chapel of West Funeral Home, 17 Merrimon Ave., Weaverville with Reverends Jeremy Raby and Don Metcalf officiating. Chayse Hyatt will serve as honorary pallbearer, and pallbearers will be Lukus Hyatt, Bill Hyatt, Shae Hyatt, Sawyer Hyatt, Avery Raby, Matt Robinson, Bobby Hensley, and Zephaniah McMahan.  Burial will follow in West Memorial Park.  The family will receive friends 6 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, May 31, 2022 at West Funeral Home.   

For those who desire, condolences may be offered to the family under Mr. Hyatt’s obituary at www.WestFamilyFuneralServices.com.