Hattie M. (Showers) Chambliss

Hattie M. Chambliss, a beloved educator, devoted community servant, and passionate gardener, passed away peacefully on October 27, 2023, in Michigan City, Indiana. Born on April 7, 1936, in Macon, Mississippi, to the late John and Kitty (Grissom) Showers, Hattie's life was marked by a deep commitment to service, education, and family.

In 1966, Hattie married the love of her life, Richard Chambliss, in South Bend. Their union was blessed with two children, Laura Chambliss Stamps (Jabari) of Ferndale, Washington, and Nicky Eugene Chambliss of South Bend. Hattie was a devoted wife and mother, creating a warm and loving home for her family. Her husband, Richard, predeceased her on June 14, 2023, after 57 years of marriage.

Hattie is survived by her daughter, Laura Chambliss Stamps (Jabari) of Ferndale, WA, and her son, Nicky Eugene Chambliss of South Bend, along with her sister, Aretha Haire of St. Louis, Missouri and special nephew, Gregory (Gwendolyn) Johnson of Columbus, Georgia. She was predeceased by her sisters Mary Helen, Georgiana, and Maudine as well as her brothers John, Bill, Edward, Sam, and Walter.

Hattie's journey in education began at Kentucky State University where she earned her bachelor’s degree in education, then went on to earn her Master’s of Education from Murray State University. This was the foundation for a remarkable 34-year career as a teacher in home economics at South Bend Community School Corporation, where she touched countless lives and inspired generations of students. She retired in 1999, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, compassion, and excellence in education and many wonderful friendships with her fellow educators.

Hattie's commitment to service extended beyond her professional life. She was a faithful attendee of St. Augustine Catholic Church where she served in the soup kitchen for many years and as a dedicated volunteer with the St. Vincent DePaul Society, serving as a leader in many endeavors. Her community involvement also included helping with the Boy Scouts and being an active member of the Mishawaka Gardening Club and the Near Northwest Neighborhood Association.

Hattie's passion for gardening was evident in the beautiful blooms she nurtured and shared with others, and her love for baking was tasted in every delicious treat she made. She combined these two loves by selling her flowers and baked goods at flea markets and other venues, spreading joy and beauty wherever she went. Also, while she was fiercely independent, she often brought Richard with her. Together, they often laughed until they nearly cried with their friends from church, gardening club, senior bus trips, Redding Family Reunions, and other ventures they took on together.

Hattie was a beacon of light in her community, a pillar of strength in her family, and a source of inspiration for her students. Her life was a testament to the power of service, the importance of education, and the beauty of nurturing life, whether in a classroom or a garden. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but her legacy will live on in the lives she touched and the love she shared. And while they will miss her more than words can express; her children are truly grateful that she will be reunited with Richard once again.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 31, 2023, at St. Augustine Catholic Church, 1501 W. Washington St., South Bend. Graveside service and burial will follow at Highland Cemetery, South Bend. Friends may visit with the family one hour prior to mass at the church.

Memorial contributions in Hattie’s honor may be made to St. Augustine Catholic Church, 1501 W. Washington St., South Bend, IN 46628.

Online condolences may be made for the family by visiting www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.

Posted online on October 28, 2023

Published in South Bend Tribune

10/28/2023 EJS