Companion Billy Ray Hatten Jr. was born on July 22, 1991, in Tallahassee, Florida, to Billy Hatten Sr. and Yolanda Hatten. He attended Madison County High School, where he excelled as a three‑sport athlete. Following graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army as a Light Wheel Mechanic (91B) and later transitioned to the role of Stryker Systems Maintainer (91S). After completing his military service, he continued serving the federal government for an additional five years as a mail handler technician and senior shop steward for the El Paso P&DC (USPS). He currently works as a senior technical advisor. Companion Hatten is married to Monica Hatten, and together they have five children.

Companion Hatten was raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason on September 26, 2013, at Pride of the West Lodge No. 53 in El Paso, Texas.