Obituary of Elaine Powell Mitchell Hatchett

Elaine Powell Mitchell Hatchett was born on April 21, 1926, to George R. and Mary V. Mitchell in Washington, DC.  Elaine and her twin brother, Ellsworth, were the last of 8 children born into the Mitchell family.  On June 3, 2020, Elaine slipped away peacefully to rest with her parents, siblings, and husband of over 65 years, Starling E. Hatchett.  She is certainly rejoicing in heaven, and has been welcomed with open arms and hearts!

Elaine, born and raised in our nation’s capital, graduated from Dunbar High School in Northwest DC.  After graduation, she went into the workforce, where she was employed by the Census Bureau.  It was during this time, that a young man caught her eye while riding the bus.  A story that she was never too shy to tell, she pursued this gentleman and eventually won him over.  Elaine and Starling were married in 1945 and had one son, Jeffrey Wayne.  Elaine continued her career, working for the National Security Agency in Ft. Meade, MD from where she eventually retired. 

After retirement, Elaine had time for her social life to thrive!  She and Starling were active bowlers, and Elaine was a member of the Keglers Bowling League.  Her love of bowling continued, even after she relocated to Wilson, NC in 2013.  Elaine also loved watching tennis- her favorite channels were anything showing the Williams Sisters.  When living in DC, Elaine was also a regular at the Deanwood Recreation Center, where she was a member of the Fancy Steppers.  She loved to dance!!!  Elaine was also a faithful member of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in DC for over 60 years, and continued her membership through tithes until the time of her passing.

Elaine was a pure delight, and loved having fun with her family and friends.  Spending time with her “Hatch”, son, grandchildren, nieces and nephews brought her joy.  She never missed an opportunity to spend time with her loved ones.  Elaine was always present at the annual block parties on Eads St, crab feasts, and family cookouts.  As the remaining sibling, ‘Laine had a very close relationship with her nieces and nephews, especially Sylvia and George.  From one state to the next, anyone who would indulge her love for shopping could also be considered a favorite, as she was a regular at Prince George’s Plaza where she was well known by all the salespersons.

Elaine’s memory will be cherished by family and friends.  She leaves to mourn her son, Jeffrey (Vickie); granddaughters, Antoinette and Yolanda; grandson, Cameron; great-granddaughter, Braelynn; and many nieces and nephews.