Booker Thomas Hathorn, Jr

Booker T. Hathorn, Jr., affectionately known as “Butch,” passed away at his home in St. Louis, Missouri, on August 12, 2025. He was born on June 4, 1956, in Morton, Mississippi, to the late Booker T. Hathorn, Sr. and Lois Culberson, younger brother to Doris Owens and Charlotte Browning and older brother to Lorenza Steven Hathorn and Cassondra Hathorn.

Booker lived a life marked by strength, kindness, and determination. From a young age, his adventurous spirit was evident. In high school in Louisville, Mississippi, Booker played fullback and was having a standout season until a devastating knee injury cut his playing days short. He walked with crutches and a full-length cast for months, and the surgery that removed the cartilage in his knee had lasting effects, even impacting aspects of his later military career. Though the injury ended his time on the field, it did not diminish his drive or his love for competition, perseverance, and teamwork.

At just 17, he left high school to serve his country in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam era. While in service, he completed his high school diploma and college coursework, a testament to his relentless drive to learn and excel.

Following his military service, Booker made history at the University of Missouri at Columbia, becoming the first African American to graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree in Nuclear Medicine. He went on to break further barriers as the first African American Nuclear Medicine Technologist in St. Louis, working at Jewish Hospital. His trailblazing achievements inspired countless others to pursue excellence and to never settle for less than their best.

Booker’s warm personality and quick wit drew people to him. He loved cooking, entertaining, and making memories with family and friends. Whether introducing loved ones to St. Louis delicacies like a pig ear sandwich, or road-tripping across the country, his zest for life was contagious.

A devoted father, Booker was deeply proud of his children, encouraging them to “reach for the stars” and reminding them, “Why settle for the rest, when you can have the best?” He was a confidant, mentor, and source of unwavering support. His love for his children—Ray, Bria, and Lakesha, his daughter who cherished connecting with him later in life—was one of his greatest joys.

He is remembered as a man of wisdom, resilience, and deep faith. His sharp mind, adventurous spirit, and heart for others left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him. Booker’s life was a testament to perseverance, love, and the power of legacy.

He leaves behind his children Ray Hathorn (Rebecca), Lakesha Butler (Ralim), and Bria Hathorn, sisters  Charlotte Browning, Doris Owens, and Cassondra Hathorn, brother Lorenza Steven Hathorn, his best friend/little brother Fred Thompson (who always said that “blood makes you related, but love makes you family.”), bonus brother Lindsey Day, bonus sister Demetrice Allison, four granddaughters, one great-grandson, countless friends and family, and all those whose lives he touched.

The family would like to give a special acknowledgment to Rhonda Jeffries, who lovingly cared for Booker for over ten years. Her dedication, compassion, and loyalty will always be remembered with gratitude.

Booker will be dearly missed but forever celebrated in the laughter, love, and memories  he leaves behind.

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