Uncrowned Community Builders

Born Hattie Baskin on October 28, 1912, Hattie was one of six children of James and Sophia Clark Baskin. Her siblings included her brother Joseph and sisters Edna, Vivian, Melzetta and Cora.

She attended schools in Buffalo, graduating from Fosdick Masten High School. After working several jobs, she met musician Charles Fuqua, who she married in August of 1944. They had two daughters, JoAnn and Charlene. She developed entrepreneurial and business skills while helping manage "The Ink Spots" and her husband's band. Charles Fuqua was one of the original members of The Ink Spots, founded in 1932. The group became an international performing and recording phenomenon with its first million-selling record, "If I Didn't Care" in 1939, which ultimately sold over 19 million copies. The popularity of their efforts culminated in the band's induction into the Rock and Roll hall of Fame in 1989.
Hattie owned several businesses in Buffalo, including a delicatessen. A world traveler, she visited many cities at home and abroad: London, Paris, Tokyo, Rome and virtually every city in the United States. With her husband, she lived briefly in New York City. She considered herself a Harlemite of sorts, to her dying day. While raising their family in Buffalo, it was not uncommon for visiting performers to avail themselves of the Fuqua's hospitality.

Mrs. Fuqua was a longtime member of Our Savior Lutheran Church having been confirmed on January 19, 1958. She was also active in civic and social organizations. She was a loyal and devoted member of the Eastern Stars, Naomi Chapter #10 O.E.S.P.H.A. She was also a dedicated member and past Illustrious Commandress of Hadji Chapter 62, Daughters of Isis.