TOP PHOTO: Upwards of 50 people turned out on a chilly, gray midday to honor and remember Keith Hatfield.

This was a young Keith Hatfield’s haven; his school, baseball field and the rec center (now library) his dad oversaw.

LAFOLLETTE, TN (WLAF) – Keith Hatfield went to school in the old school building that still stands on the hill above the baseball field where he played. It was West La Follette School and Liberty Park where he honed his skills in the classroom and on the diamond in small town 1970s America.

It didn’t take long for Vickie Mays to realize that Keith Hatfield was one special student in her kindergarten class. While she was trying to teach coloring inside the lines, Keith was reading the milk carton aloud to the class. Days like that soon earned Keith a job as assistant librarian for the duration of his tenure at WLS. “He loved to read. Oh, my how he loved to read,” said his mom, Sandra Hatfield.

A permanent plaque will soon be placed near the tree dedicated in Keith Hatfield’s memory.

In first grade, when everyone was answering doctor or teacher or fireman or nurse as the occupation they’d like to become, Keith announced he wanted to be president. At that time in current events, there was much concern about the Social Security system, and Keith assured his teacher, Mrs. Edna Lambdin, that as president he’d make sure she received her Social Security.

“Years later, Keith, the now attorney, was helping Mrs. Lambdin with her will. She thanked Keith and made sure he knew that she was getting her Social Security just fine,” said Sandra.

(Left to right) Mayor Mike Stanfield, Parks and Recreation Director Johnny Byrge are joined by Keith Hatfield’s parents, Butch and Sandra Hatfield.

At noon on Tuesday, judges, attorneys, firemen, policemen, businessmen, elected officials and others gathered in the grassy flat between the old school and the city’s library for the dedication of a Sugar Maple Tree in Keith’s memory. Among the group were childhood pals, Kip Leach, Billy Moore and Curt Burgan. “I can’t believe this many people came out for Keith in the middle of the work day,” said a teary eyed Sandra.

La Follette Mayor Mike Stanfield and Director of Parks and Recreation Johnny Byrge shared thoughts and stories about Keith with those in attendance. Keith’s father, Butch, expressed his appreciation for the dedication and thanked all those who came out. Years ago, Butch served as director of parks and recreation for the city.

This Sugar Maple Tree was dedicated to the memory of Keith Hatfield. This type of tree typically grows to a height of 60 to 75 feet.

Hatfield passed away in September just months after turning 50-years- old. He not only was a successful attorney, he also hosted sports talk shows weekly on his hometown radio station, WLAF. HERE is one of Hatfield’s favorite interviews as he spoke with former Tennessee Vol Rodney Woods. Related story.

The grounds of West La Follette School were Hatfield’s playground. That’s why on those grounds, the tree dedicated in his memory serves as a fitting tribute. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 11/17/2021-6AM)

3 Replies to “Hatfield’s tree dedication ceremony stirs small town feelings”

  1. What a fitting location for the
    ceremony. Played on the hill of the old West LaFollette School with Keith quite a bit.

  2. What precious memories of the WLS playground at the bottom of that hill. Keith was fun and will be remembered as a great guy.

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