Dathan Kern Hart

Dathan Kern Hart “The Tomato King” passed away on Thursday, April 18, 2024, at the age of 73.  He was born April 23, 1950, in Mendenhall, Mississippi to Luther Hart and Bobby Wooley Hart.    

After graduating from Delta State University, with a bachelor's degree in Music Education, he then began his decade long career as a middle school and high school band director, finishing his career at Philadelphia High School.  This job did more than allow him to share his passion for music with children, it is where he met the mother of his children, Susan Wilson Hart.  Working in the education profession allowed him to later start a nearly 25-year career in fundraising where he worked with countless schools, churches and other organizations.  Never one to sit idly and with a true entrepreneurial spirit, Dathan then took over operations of the Tomato King.  His sincerity, ability to easily forge relationships and keen business sense contributed to his success.  He was the primary provider of tomatoes to a number of restaurants in and around Baton Rouge, until he retired in late 2023.  He still maintained friendships with many of his customers.

Dathan was an avid golfer for a large portion of his adult life and a lover of all thing food. He was so happy that he was able to walk his daughter down the aisle at her wedding last October.  We will forever remember his great sense of humor and ability to connect with anyone.   While there will never be enough time, the memories that were made will be cherished forever.

He is preceded in death by his parents and the mother of his children.  Dathan is survived by his loving children, Franklin Hart and his wife Natalie, and Sara Hart DeRouen and her husband Joshua; his beloved grandchildren, Phillip and Patrick Hart; his siblings Luroy, Sam and Hope; as well as numerous other loving family and friends.

At his request, private services were held at Resthaven Gardens of Memory for his family.

Family and friends may sign the online guestbook or leave a personal note to the family at www.resthavenbatonrouge.com