Deitrich Chatman

On March 27, 1939, Deacon Deitrich B. Chatman, the shining light in the lives of those who knew him, was born to the union of Mr. Foster Chatman and Mrs. Henrietta Truss Chatman in Talladega, Alabama. His warm smile, kind heart, and unwavering generosity touched the lives of countless individuals throughout his lifetime. He was a man of few words but made a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of crossing his path. From an early age, Deacon Chatman embraced his faith and found solace in the Sycamore Missionary Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon and member of the male chorus choir. His powerful voice and unwavering commitment to spreading God's love through music touched the hearts of many. Deacon Chatman was educated in the Talladega County School System and was a proud and prominent graduate of Talladega County Training School, known today as Talladega County Central High School. After graduating from high school, Deitrich sought a better life and moved to Detroit, Michigan. There, he carved a successful career as an assembler with General Motors, earning the respect and admiration of his colleagues. With dedication and hard work, he contributed significantly to the manufacturing industry. Despite his achievements in the north, Deacon Chatman never forgot his roots. Following his retirement, he returned to his hometown of Talladega, where he reveled in the simple joys of life. An avid gardener, he took pride in nurturing his plants, creating a colorful haven around his home. He remained deeply connected to his high school alma mater, not merely as a fan but as an influential figure in the lives of many students and alumni. Known for his impeccable style, Deacon Chatman's polished shoes and elegant suits made him a true fashion icon. Along Deacon Chatman's 84-year earthly journey, he became the father of five loving children and the husband to his beloved wife, the late wife, Mrs. Murleen Chatman. However, after the passing of Murleen, Deacon Chatman continued to find peace and joy on the banks fishing and watching the Atlanta Braves baseball games. On Wednesday morning, September 27, 2023, after God had given us 84 long earthly years with Deacon Deitrich B. Chatman, he peacefully beckoned for his servant to return home for eternal rest and we can only imagine what a time he is having as he walk through those pearly gates where the streets are paved with gold, no more pain and suffering, but rejoicing with his wife, Murleen P. Chatman, parents, Foster and Henrietta Chatman, son, Michael Chatman, daughter, Teresa Chatman, granddaughter, DeNille Wills, brothers, Lee Curtis Chatman, James Foster Chatman, and Paul Chatman, and sisters, Myrtle Beck and Ruth Cunningham. Deacon Chatman left behind a legacy of love and memories that will forever be cherished by his loving two loving daughters, Rhonda (Mike) Chatman and Myra (Clifford) Cross; son, Deitrich Tyrone Britt; three grandchildren, Nequaria Truitt, Terrance Cross, and Jacory Cross; three bonus children, Sharon (Jr.) Lynch, Larry Curry, and William Heard; one sister, Margaret Chatman; fourteen great-grandchildren; lovely companion, Ms. Rosie Curry; sister-in-law, Marquette Chatman; three brothers-in-law, Leroy Porter, Edward (Jessie) Porter, and Calvin (Mary) Porter; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, friends, and all his brothers and sisters in Christ who loved him dearly. As we bid farewell to Deacon Deitrich Chatman, let us remember the legacy he leaves behind-an unwavering faith, a love of music, an indomitable spirit, and a dedication to family and community. May his soul find eternal peace as he joins his loved ones in heaven.

Tributes

Deitrich Chatman

March 27, 1939 - September 27, 2023