Charles Hamilton
Jerseyville |
Charles Robert Hamilton, 94 passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 15, 2024 in Jerseyville. He was born January 17, 1930 in Monmouth, IL to Lytle and Esther (Pinkerton) Hamilton. He married Nancy Henry on June 14, 1953 in Modesto. They celebrated 70 years of marriage together before her passing in November 2023.
Charlie grew up on a farm near Monmouth. He graduated from University of Illinois with an Agriculture degree. Prior to U of I, he attended Western Illinois Univ where he met Nancy. After graduation, he took a job teaching, but was soon called to serve in the US Army. He and Nancy lived in Baltimore for much of his service.
After the Army, Charlie and Nancy moved to Jerseyville and began teaching at the High School in 1954. He is well remembered as an agriculture teacher and FFA sponsor. Charlie also taught Ag to Veterans in GI Bill evening classes. Later he held positions with Jersey County Schools in administration, retiring as Assistant Superintendent in 1987. Charlie was a proud veteran, educator and farmer at heart.
In retirement, Charlie was busy with family, hobbies, traveling and local service. He collected antiques and refinished furniture. His stained glass art creations were shared among family and friends. He and Nancy traveled often visiting many countries, and spent many winters in Ft. Myers, FL.
Spending time with family and friends was always a priority. Whether it be a night out, canoe trip, Lake of the Ozarks family week or visits to family afar, he was always ready.
Charlie was an active member and leader of the First Presbyterian Church. He also volunteered for various service organizations through the years.
Charles is survived by children Dale (Amy) Hamilton of Sandwich, IL, David (Carrie) Hamilton of Jerseyville and Alice (Anthony) Lechiara of Wheaton, IL. Six grandchildren, Jodi (Scott) Burney, Neal (Nicole) Hamilton, Paul (Ashleigh) Hamilton, Jeff (Karen) Hamilton, Emily (Matt) Stoklosa, Grace (Kyle) Funke, and great grandchildren, Ava, Mason, Knox, Merrik, Charleigh, Nora and Miles. Brother in law Jackson Henry. He is preceded by his parents, one sister, one granddaughter Lauren, and 3 great grandchildren Brock, Pax, Willa.
Services for Charles Hamilton will be Tuesday August 20 at the First Presbyterian Church in Jerseyville. Visitation will be at 12:00 with funeral service to follow at 3:00. There will be a reception at the church following the ceremony. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to First Presbyterian Church of Jerseyville.
Crawford Funeral Home in Jerseyville has been entrusted with arrangements.
Memories may be shared with the family by visiting www.crawfordfunerals.com
Crawford Funeral Home
