Francis T Hammell

Specialist Five, U.S. Army (E‑5) Francis, “Frank” Thomas Hammell, lovingly known as Papa Bear, passed away at the age of 79 on February 11, 2026, in West Deptford Township, NJ. Born on December 26, 1946, in Camden, NJ.  He was the son to the late Mary Hammell and was predeceased by his son David Hammell and his sister Beverly.   Frank is survived by his four children: Jeffery Hammell, Rachel Covington, Laura Love, and Robert Hammell, beloved grandchildren Adelisa Hammell, Fatimah Covington, Leila Covington, and Nasir Covington, his siblings: Harold, Mary, Leonard, Darlene, and David; as well as many nieces, nephews, great‑nieces, and great‑nephews. 

Frank proudly served in the United States Army. He began his military career with Company A, 1st Battalion, 509th Infantry Regiment, Seventh Army at Lee Barracks in Mainz, Germany. There he became an Expert (M‑14 Rifle), Second Class Gunner (M‑60), and a paratrooper. Recognized for his intelligence and technical skill, he went on to advanced radio training in New Jersey and later served at a MARS radio station in Alabama. In 1968, he deployed to Vietnam, where he was stationed in North Nha Trang. His unit played a vital role in maintaining long‑range communication systems during one of the most challenging periods of the war. He kept soldiers connected, informed, and safe — a responsibility he carried with quiet pride throughout his life.

Outside of the service, Frank continued his passion for radio as a licensed ham operator, known by the callsign N2MOX. He found beauty in the outdoors, whether camping, fishing, hiking, or bicycling, you could count on Frank to know the best spots. Frank grew into a devoted father, grandfather, brother, and friend whose presence, humor, and quiet strength shaped the lives of everyone who knew him. Services will be had at a later date.