Obituary of Deatta K. Hart

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Deatta was born in Tampa Florida November 29, 1932, to the late Pauline and Deeh Keaton.  She graduated from Milton High School.  In 1948 she moved to Rochester, NY.  She married the love of her life, Jenkins Hart Sr. in 1950 and to this union 5 children were born. 

A licensed day care provider for over 38 years, Deatta cared for many children who lovingly referred to her as “Mama Dee”.  She was very proud of her community work including her involvement at Baden Street Settlement and Hanover Housing where she coordinated programs to allow area residents to receive college credits within their community.  Mrs. Hart also invited and hosted Malcolm X to Rochester. 

In 1956 Deatta became a member of the International Free and Accepted Masons an Order of Eastern Star.   She had over 50 years of being a member of the Daughters of Jericho Chapter 15, where she served as Grand Matron from 1960-1964. 

Mrs. Deatta Hart had a strong solid and firm belief in God.  She was a long time member of St. Peter and Paul until she became a member of St. Monica’s.  

Deatta will be remembered for her loving heart, as she never met a stranger and always making time to pray. 

She is preceded in death by her parents  Pauline and Deeh; husband Jenkins and grandchildren John and Breanna.

Deatta departed this life on April 11, 2023.  She leaves to cherish her memory 5 children: Jenkins Hart Jr, Anneka (Arnold) Cole, Denise Hart, Jacqueline Sutton and Kelly (Faith) Hart.  Twenty grandchildren: Corey, Kellee, Ansel, Jamell, Dyani, Janee, D’Ashli, Jeremy, Ashley, Aaron, Jesmond, Chelsea, Jessica, Tyesha, Noelle, Javia, Kaysia, and Justyce.  23 great grandchildren and 5 great-great grandchildren, 1 sister Geraldine Keaton, 2 special sister Willie May McKenzie and Melissa Jeffries-Stewart,  2 special daughters  Rudine Curry and Gaya Shakes and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.