It is with heavy hearts but joyous spirits that we celebrate the life of Terrence Orlando Hatley, lovingly known as T-Hat or Tee. Born on March 8, 1981, in the city of Canton, Ohio, Tee was a beacon of light who brightened the lives of all around him until his transition on January 15, 2025.

Tee, the cherished son of Yolanda Hatley and Willie “Cap” Ervin Suggs Sr., lived his entire life in Canton, where he made his mark. A proud graduate of Timken Senior High School’s class of 2000, he forged countless friendships that only deepened over the years.

Though Tee faced health battles early on, he never let adversity dim his love for life. Instead, he approached each day with a passion for learning, a love of literature, and an enthusiasm for politics that sparked lively conversations wherever he went.

Music was his soul’s rhythm, and his wardrobe—especially an extensive collection of Polo designer wear—expressed his vibrant spirit. Tee found great joy in traveling and took pleasure in creating timeless memories with family and friends, spending time with family & friends, which included his Brick City Family.

T-Hat adored children wholeheartedly, often going above and beyond to ensure their happiness. His passion for celebration was unmatched; there was truly nothing he loved more than a great party!

Terrence leaves to cherish his memory his loving mother Yolanda Hatley & bonus mom/cousin Carolyn Hatley whom he resided, three sisters and three brothers. Tee also enjoyed a close relationship with his cousins Alicia & Michael Wright Sr. LaTasha Ellis, Javon Suggs, LaToya Backie & T-Hat’s “Angels” and especially Keya Backie who was always being available for whatever the occasion. His legacy will retain its brilliant radiance by an abundance of aunts, uncles, cousins and friends who relished him.

As Terrence crossed the celestial sands into eternity, he was welcomed to the ancestral table by his father, Willie Suggs, Sr., brother Ronnie Suggs, grandparents Arlanders & Alice Hatley and Houston & Lula Suggs, a score of aunts and uncles, cousin Daron Davis and his beloved canine companion, which was like a son to him, King, all who preceded him in death.

As we prepare to honor his remarkable life, the Hatley family invites the community to join in the recognition of this life well lived and loved.

Let us gather not only to mourn the loss of our dear Tee but to reflect on the laughter, love, and unforgettable moments we’ve shared on Saturday, January 25, 2025, for public viewing from 10-noon in the chapel of the J. E. Washington Funeral Services,1617 Third Street N.E. in Canton. A celebration of life service will follow at 12:00pm with Rev. Angie Williams presiding.

A committal ceremony will take place at Evergreen Memorial Gardens where Tee and King, his beloved canine companion, will be laid to rest. For in the memory of Terrence, T-Hat-Tee, we find the joy of life, an enduring testament to love that will forever shine in our hearts. REST EASY T-HAT! WE WILL TRULY MISS YOU!

The beloved family of Terrence “T-Hat” O. Hatley entrusted the Ministry of Comfort and After-Care Arrangements to J.E. Washington Funeral Services, 1617 Third Street NE, Canton OH 330-454-3901.

I MADE IT

By the Grace of God, through it all I made it! I’m now standing in the presence of all my family, friends & loved ones that arrived here before me.

When my name was called, I struggled with leaving because I love you all so much and wanted to personally say goodbye to you all. Now I want to thank everybody for loving me, being there for me and most of all forgiving me for my shortcomings.

There is so much I want to say but time is no more. One day when you take your flight, I’ll be waiting to greet you as you come into the Pearly Gates. Until then, remember, I LOVE YOU unconditionally and love is as strong as death.