Zachary Cade Hatcher, age 43, passed away tragically on July 22, 2024 in a plane crash at Long Island MacArthur Airport in Ronkonkoma, New York. His partner, Christopher Thomas Kucera, age 46, also perished in the accident.
He is survived by his parents D. Glenn Hatcher and Phyllis Jane Traynham Hatcher, and sister, Jane Grace Hatcher (Christopher White). His beloved uncles and aunts include Jeffery Traynham, Jay & Chappell Traynham and Keith & Karla Hatcher. His cherished cousins are Matthew Hatcher (Courtney), Eleanor Traynham-Hester (Patrick), Levi Hatcher, Thomas A. Traynham (Kayla), Thomas C. Traynham (Mary Virginia), Alexa Hatcher-Wilkinson (Trace), Mark Traynham (Savannah) and second cousins, Jeffrey & Everett Traynham. Zachary had many “framily” and friends from all over the world that held him so close. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Elzie B. Hatcher and Waver Roland Hatcher, Jerry Clifford Traynham Jr. and Willma Grace Sherrod Traynham.
Zachary was born on October 27,1980 in Hahira, Georgia. He moved to Valdosta, Georgia, for his earlier years, later spending his middle and high school years in Nairobi, Kenya. There he developed a love for theater and delivered several show-stopping performances at Rosslyn Academy. One of his top roles was “Snoopy” in the school’s production, “You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown.”
Zach received multiple degrees from Valdosta State University including a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and International Relations, a Bachelor’s Degree in Religious Studies & The Human Community with a Certificate in European Union Studies, International Relations and Affairs; along with a Master’s degree in Public Administration MPA, Non-Profit /Public and Organizational Management.
During his college years, he worked for Christ the King Episcopal Church in Valdosta, Georgia. While there, he helped facilitate the opening and managing of Hildegard’s Coffee Shop as well as working on many downtown community projects. In 2009, he moved to Fredericksburg, Virginia.
Zach was a beloved member of the Fredericksburg, Virginia, community and known for his visionary leadership, strategic thinking, commitment to public service and community development. He served as Executive Director of Fredericksburg Area Health and Support Services (FAHASS). In 2014, he moved to The University of Mary Washington where he rose to the position of Executive Director of Development, leading fundraising efforts and playing a crucial role in developing the Beyond the Classroom Endowment. In 2021, he then became Senior Director of Development for the Chesapeake Bay Foundation. Most recently, he was appointed CEO of The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region, a position he was set to begin on August 5th.
Zach and his partner, Chris, had a passion for renovating historic properties and had restored White Plains Farm in King George County, Virginia. They were known for their warm hospitality with movie nights and legendary dinner parties. Zach loved to travel! He co-hosted the popular Art Snap podcast with Claire Ellinger. His resonant voice became familiar to many as they delved into their passion for all things art.
Zachary will be remembered as a devoted son and brother, partner, friend, community member, lifelong learner and pursuer of his passions.
A joint Celebration of Life will be held on September 6, at 3:00 PM at the Jepson Alumni Center. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to FAHASS, Chesapeake Bay Foundation or The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region in Zach’s memory, as all of these foundations were very near to his heart.
