Jamie Hatchette
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Jamie Hatchette, 60, passed away unexpectedly on October 8, 2026. She was a devoted mother of three, loving grandmother, cherished partner, and passionate nursing professor whose life was defined by generosity, compassion, and an unwavering belief in others. Born on July 20, 1966, in Kansas City, MO, Jamie was the daughter of James and Donna Valentine. She loved teaching and mentoring her students as a Clinical Assistant Professor at UMKC School of Nursing and Health Studies, where she helped shape future generations of nurses. Jamie graduated with her Registered Nursing degree from Avila University in 2005, and was a lifelong student herself, continuing on to earn her MBA and MSN degrees. She was actively pursuing her Doctor of Education degree and became an accomplished educator, receiving numerous awards and nominations including winning the Daisy Award in 2021-2022. Her dedication to her students extended far beyond the classroom, reflecting the same kindness and care she offered everyone in her life.
Above all, Jamie loved her family. She was her three daughters’ biggest supporter, and the person they could always call no matter what. She also delighted in her role as a doting grandmother and her grandchildren were the light of her life. Jamie also shared more than 13 years of life and love with her partner, building a home full of fur children and making cherished memories together. She loved books and Christmastime, and treasured family traditions, long conversations, laughter, and time spent together. A woman of deep Christian faith, she lived her beliefs through her generosity, acceptance, and commitment to help others. She also had an enormous heart for animals, and never met a creature she didn’t love. Jamie had a quirky spirit, a wonderful sense of humor, and a light that made people feel loved and believed in. She gave generously even when she had little herself, and made a lasting difference in the lives of her family, friends, students, colleagues, and countless others.
She is survived by her partner, Wade Tucker; her 3 daughters and 2 sons-in-law, Caitlin & Chip Mezo, Cassidy Hatchette, and Caycee & Cameron Lazier; Her grandchildren, Bodhi & River Mezo and Amari Lazier; and her fur children and fur grandchildren, Finn, Ruby, Bing, Olive, Fig, Moss, Ginsburg, & Charlie. Her legacy lives on in the people she taught, the lives she touched, and the love she gave so freely.
A visitation followed by funeral services will be held on Friday, October 16, 2026 from 10 am to 12 pm at Heartland Cremation and Burial Society: 6113 Blue Ridge Blvd. Raytown, MO 64133. If you would like to send flower arrangements, please send to the address above.
Jamie was such an amazing professor. I loved being a part of her clinical and loved the way she would always advocate for us. I will forever cherish the moments we made with her and won’t ever forget the impact she made on me as a student.
Professor Hatchette was such an amazing person and educator. I credit my position in nursing to her! She was pivotal in creating direction and change within nursing to mental health. She was always so kind, and thoughtful in her approaches to teaching. My thoughts and prayers are with her family during this time. She has been a true guiding light of joy, and strength and she will truly be missed!
I am blessed that Jamie was a dear friend of mine. She ministered often to my family when all of our babies were little. I so enjoyed ‘Mom-ing’ alongside her watching our children play and grow into beautiful, talented young adults and now having families of their own. She & I later enjoyed walking Finn & Trixie on various trails. Be encouraged, as we keep following Jesus, we WILL see Jamie again. God bless each of you. Philippians 4:8
Professor Hatchette was the epitome of nursing excellence. During my time at UMKC she was a known safe place for all students and a champion for the underrepresented and marginalized patient populations. She was someone you always knew was cheering you on! I am so sorry to hear of her passing. Praying for peace and comfort for her family and loved ones as I know she will be greatly missed and her loss felt deeply.
Professor Hatchette had such a positive impact for me in nursing school. She was someone who truly believed in me and my abilities to become a nurse. I always think of her, as a fellow OB nurse who often gets along best with the patients who are often a little more difficult or rough around the edges. She will be deeply and sincerely missed.
Girls and Wade I am truly heartbroken for you guys! Jamie was one very treasured friend and confident! I truly enjoyed all the fun weekend I had with you guys at the house on 3rd street. I remember them so foundly and wish for those day. I will forever miss my friend and maid of honor! We will keep you guys in our prayers as you navigate this terrible loss. Know that she is smiling down at you guys. She was so proud of you, loved you and did anything to make you happy. Lots of ❤️
Professor Hatchette left an indelible mark on me in nursing school. She was always so warm, welcoming, understanding, and filled with so much compassion. She has continued to care for her students even after they graduate, always rooting for us from the sidelines. My deepest condolences to Professor Hatchette’s family. May she rest in heavenly peace.
Dr. Hatchette was one of the sweetest professors I’ve ever had the pleasure of learning from. While I didn’t know her for long, she was one of the most positive and easy to talk to people I’ve ever met. All of my classmates and I will miss her so so much.