Nicholas Jared Hatfield

With broken hearts, we share the passing of Nicholas Jared "Nick" Hatfield, who left this world far too soon on July 23, 2026, at the age of 35.

Born and raised in Lakeland, Florida, Nick was known for his larger-than-life personality, infectious smile, quick wit, and generous heart. He truly brought joy and laughter to everyone he met. His love for others, zest for life, and genuine kindness left a lasting impression on family, friends, coworkers, and all whose lives he touched.

Nick's passion for food was more than a career—it was one of the ways he showed love. A talented chef by trade, Nick spent his life surrounded by food and the people it brought together. Whether creating a meal, sharing his knowledge with others, or helping people discover the joy of cooking, he found purpose in the connections made around the table. His love for food extended beyond his work and became a gift he shared with his daughters, Mia Grace Hatfield and Eva Marie Hatfield, and his niece, Katelyn Milcich, creating memories that will be cherished for years to come.

While Nick found purpose in his work, his greatest joy in life was being a father. His daughters, Mia Grace (7) and Eva Marie (2), were the light of his life. He adored them beyond measure and cherished every opportunity to laugh, play, cook, and make memories with them. He was endlessly proud of the family he shared with Beth and treasured every moment spent with their girls. More than anything, he wanted his girls to know how deeply they were loved, and that love will remain with them always.

Nick is survived by his beloved daughters, Mia Grace and Eva Marie; their mother, Beth Hatfield, with whom he shared a deep and enduring love and the family they built together; his parents, Stephen and Melissa Hatfield; his sister, Megan Milcich; his brother-in-law, Matthew Milcich; his niece, Katelyn Milcich; as well as extended family and dear friends who will forever treasure the joy he brought into their lives.

Though his time with us was far too short, the light Nick brought into the lives of others will continue to shine through every laugh he inspired, every meal shared around a table, and every life he touched. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

Visitation will be held on Friday, July 31, 2026 at 9:00 am, with services following at 10:00 am at Heath Funeral Chapel.  A reception with light refreshments will be served immediately following the service. Interment will be held at Oak Hill Burial Park at 12:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites those who wish to honor Nick’s memory to contribute to a memorial fund established for his beloved daughters, Mia Grace and Eva Marie. It is the family’s hope that these gifts will serve as a lasting expression of love, support, and encouragement for the girls in the years ahead.

Beth Hatfield will oversee the funds through a custodial brokerage account established for the benefit of Mia and Eva. Contributions may be made via Venmo to @beth-v-hatfield (last four digits 5440) or by check made payable to Mia Grace Hatfield and/or Eva Marie Hatfield. All gifts will be deposited into the account and held for the girls' future benefit.