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Columbus, Ohio

Jerry Hammond Obituary

HAMMOND Jerry Hammond, passed away August 25, 2010. A community leader who was passionate about the City of Columbus, its neighborhoods and its people. Served on Columbus City Council for 16 years (1974-90), including six years as the first African American Council president (1984-90). Following retirement from City Council, Jerry remained active in the community serving on the Ohio Environmental Board of Review, and on the board of Franklin County Children's Services. Jerry led efforts to outlaw discrimination in employment and housing in the city, and to establish goals for minority and female participation in city-funded projects. Prior to serving on council, he chaired the Police Community Relations Committee that helped draft the city's first written policy on use of deadly force. Jerry worked tirelessly to help the city to grow and prosper by working for strong neighborhoods, strategic economic development and growth policies, development of the Near East side now known as the King-Lincoln District, including the establishment of the King Arts Complex, and permanent funding for the arts. Recognized nationally for his knowledge of human services needs, particularly in the areas of redevelopment and housing, he helped to establish the Community Shelter Board. Jerry was one of the original committee members involved in creating the Ft. Hayes Career Center and co-chaired the successful 1978 Columbus City Schools levy campaign following desegregation. Most importantly, Jerry always made time for others, especially to help people find jobs, financial assistance, or connecting them with human services. Throughout his life, Jerry was a thoughtful mentor, including to many of today's elected officials and community leaders. Well-known for his passion for golf and jazz, Jerry achieved his dream of opening a jazz club, Major Chord, in the Short North, featuring exceptional local and national jazz artists. Special thanks to the second floor staff at Westminster - Thurber, and especially to Kadija. Jerry is survived by his wife, Mary Jo Green; two children, Charlene and Gerry (Anthea) and their mother Gwen; three grandsons, Chad Anderson, Christopher Hammond and Jaden Hammond; sisters, Netty Cooper of Columbus, and Barbara Goncalves of Chicago; and nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends 12 noon-2 p.m. and 5-7 p.m., Monday, August 30, 2010 at the King Arts Complex, 867 Mt. Vernon Ave., Columbus, OH 43203 (Alpha Phi Alpha ceremony at 12:30 p.m.). Memorial service 4 p.m., Tuesday, August 31, 2010 at the Southern Theatre, 21 East Main St., Columbus, OH 43215. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to King Arts Complex, 867 Mt. Vernon Avenue, Columbus, OH 43203; The Madden Center for Parkinson's Disease at The Ohio State University, Department of Neurology, 395 W. 12th Ave., Room 740, Columbus, OH 43210; or Westminster - Thurber Community, 717 Neil Ave., Columbus OH 43215. Arrangements entrusted to DIEHL-WHITTAKER FUNERAL SERVICE, 720 E. Long St. To sign the online guestbook, please visit www.diehl-whittaker.com/obits

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Columbus Dispatch from Aug. 29 to Aug. 30, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Jerry Hammond

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Sandra Gardner

August 23, 2024

Jerry Hammond worked hard for the people of Columbus, and Columbus is the better for it. He was a legend in Black and a true warrior.

Akila Alston Smith

February 4, 2023

I would always as a child and as an adult admire Mr. Hammond. My father enjoyed when Mr. Hammond would come to hear him play some nights at one of the Jazz Clubs and then outdoor events

Carole Simmons

August 21, 2019

Gone, but not forgotten.

September 13, 2010

We were so very saddened to learn of your tremendous loss. Jerry will be greatly missed.....We are thinking of you.......Fondly, Joyce & Chuck Shenk

S. Yolanda Robinson

September 3, 2010

To the Hammond Family:

I was sorry to learn about the passing of Jerry Hammond. He did a lot for our community. We send our prayers to you during this difficult time.

S. Yolanda Robinson and Family

Lillian Henry

September 2, 2010

Dear Hammond Family,

Please accept my sincere condolence in the lost of your loved one. I had the opportunity of meeting Mr. Hammond at a Fund Raiser many years ago. Please cherish the memories and find comfort in these memories.

God bless you and your family.

Karryen Jones

September 2, 2010

I can remember as a "preteen" of meeting the Hammond family. The very first opportunity I had back then was to babysit for Gerry. Throughout the years I learned so much about being involved in community events at such a very young age because of Jerry. I am so thankful for that today as I am still carrying out a part of his legacy.

My prayers goes out to the family and may God bless each of you.

September 1, 2010

Dear Hammond Family,

Please accept my sincere condolences in the loss of your loved one. I looked up to Jerry when I was a child. He did so much to promote the welfare of minorities and other underrepresented populations. He was truly a role model and a blessing to many. Please cherish the time that you had with him and continue to find comfort in the memories you made over the years. May God bless and keep you all in His care.

Dr. Mona Robinson (Pickerington, OH)

Sandra Gardner

September 1, 2010

To the Jerry Hammond Family,

We were so sorry to hear of Jerry's passing. He was a good friend and mentor. Jerry worked tirelessly for this community and beyond. We are grateful for this great man with a beautiful smile and wonderful personality touching our lives. He made a positive mark in history and we are the better for it. May God comfort you as only He can.

With much prayer and love,


Johnny and Sandra Gardner and Family

Diane Evans

September 1, 2010

One did not have to be in the political gym politics to appreciate Jerry Hammond as a man of compassion and soul. I was pleased in the late 70's to meet Jerry and call him friend. He helped a single white divorced mother of two get the assistance I never knew available to help my children and their mother survive the heartbreak of being on their own. My thoughts,prayers and sympathies to his family he was the best and may he always rest in peace. And Jerry I never told anyone else I was from Ann Arbor!!! Woody was enough...Hugs my friend. And forever thankful..

Bonnie Grinston

September 1, 2010

To Mrs.Gwen,Charlie and Jerry,

I was saddened to hear the loss of your loved one he was an awesome guy I met him through the Grinston family. He was a very kind man and I know you all will miss him dearly may God bless you all during this time of your loss.

August 31, 2010

To The Family of Jerry Hammond,

Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. May God Bless and keep you during this time of loss and always.

The Spotts Family

Raquel Dowdy-Cornute

August 31, 2010

Jerry was always a kind, respectful,and gracious person. We always greeted each other with a smile and a hug. He will be missed but not forgotten -- each of us was blessed because he was a part of our lives.

MaryJo DeVault

August 31, 2010

MaryJo and family, I have had the opportunity to know Jerry and all of you for only a short time, but came to care for all of you deeply. I know this will be a very difficult time of loss and pray that the Lord will comfort you with His love.

Ron & Lavita Stokes

August 31, 2010

We pray that you and your family have strength as you go through this very difficult time.

David and Carol Smith

August 31, 2010

Our condolences to the Hammond family. We in Columbus owe a debt to Mr. Hammond for his work and contributions to the city. Thank you so much.

The Marbury Family

August 31, 2010

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Gwynett Taylor

August 31, 2010

My condolences to the Hammond family: Jerry Hammond was a true humanitarian. I resigned from the state leaving reinstateable. When trying to go back to the agency I was denied. I scheduled an appointment to meet with Mr. Hammond about my issue. He didn't allow me to meet with one of his constituents un- like most politicians he meet with me himself he only ask that I show proof that I was a registered voter. When explaining my situation Mr. Hammond picks up the telephone contacted the director over the agency and I was employed with the state within thirty days..For this I feel it was an honor and privilege to have know such First Black President of the Columbus City Council. Farewell and God bless gone but not forgotten.
Gwynett Taylor

kevin smith

August 31, 2010

my deepest condolences to the family this was truly a great man and leader in the ongoing story of the capital city he shaped the history of columbus as well as touched many lives his leadership will be deeply missed

August 31, 2010

Mr.Hammond was a shinning star in Columbus. He touched the live's of many, alway's with a smile an a kind word. He will be missed but not forgotten! God Bless the Family.. Eula and Lisa Hart

Sherri Robinson

August 31, 2010

You all have been in my prayers since I heard the news. I have wonderful childhood memories of family times with you. I will forever remember his passion, his pleasant demeanor, and his luminous smile! God be with you and may his soul rest in peace.

Linda L Marshall-Clark

August 31, 2010

Sincere condolences to the family especially Charlene and Gerry, will keep you in my prayers. Mr Hammond touched many lives for the better.

Elder Linda L. (Marshall) Clark
(from Atcheson St) - smile

Joe Roberts

August 30, 2010

Mary Jo my love and prayers our with you and your family. Jerry and I go way back to the TICO days and have remained friends. I too will miss him as we always got together when I visited Columbus, if not for lunch or dinner for drinks at the Round Bar. Jerry was a wonderful man and a great mentor to many. Love!

Joe Roberts

August 30, 2010

My heart goes out to the Hammond family. I had the pleasure of working with Jerry at TICO in the early 60's. We remained friends and we always got together when I visited Columbus, I will always remember his greeting, "Hi Big Guy". I have truly lost a friend.

August 30, 2010

I was one of the first BlACK WOMEN THAT BELONG TO A BIG UNION IN COLUMBUS, AND MR HAMMOND HELP ME TO KEEP MY JOB WHEN SO MANY WAS AGAINST ME, THANK YOU MR HAMMOND

Patti (Mahoney) Caudill

August 30, 2010

May the Lord be with you, Mary Jo and family, in the days ahead!

SUE WILLIAMSON

August 30, 2010

Charlene and Jerry:

I am praying for you and with you as you go through the loss of your father. His spirit snd personality were so powerful and so positive that he left an indelible mark on everyone and everything that he touched. I feel blessed to have known him.

Patricia Martin

August 30, 2010

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

August 30, 2010

It was a pleasure being a friend of Jerry's for over 30 years. He will be truly missed. My prayers go out to the Hammond family.

-Gretta Scott-Holt, Dulith, Georgia

THE TATE FAMILY

August 30, 2010

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

RENARD & LORRAINE ALLEN

August 30, 2010

Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.

Jessica Figgins

August 30, 2010

I was so blessed to have known Mr. Hammond. He helped me get my first job with the CETA and PIC programs as a teenager. He will be missed. My prayers are with his family at this time.

Angie Jenkins

August 30, 2010

Our prayers are with the Hammond Family.
Angelo Welborn and Angie Jenkins friends of Jerry Hammond Jr.

August 30, 2010

I was blessed to work with Jerry for eight years before I move to San Antonio, TX. What a terrific man. He will surely be missed. My sympathy to the Hammond family and may God keep them in his embrace. Jan Brown, San Antonio, TX

Carole Simmons

August 30, 2010

What a wonderful person Jerry was. It was always such a pleasure to run into him downtown because he always spoke and flashed that lovely smile. God be with you.

August 30, 2010

Our prayers are with the Hammond family. May God be your strength and comfort during this time of loss. God is just a prayer away. Neely and Smith families

James Bynum

August 30, 2010

What a wonderful man, he taught every young man that he came in contact with the responsibility of education, morales and family values. He even taught us how to walk, talk, and dress and the importance of being prepared for success. He definately laid the footprint in Cols, OH, for young black men to follow. I've known the Hammonds over 50 yrs, I enlisted his Son in the U.S. Army in 1985. Jerry was our HERO. May God bless the Hammond Family.

Victoria Wilder Crews

August 30, 2010

To the Hammond family, may God sustain and strengthen you in the loss of great leader. Jerry will be greatly missed.

Elnora Jenkins

August 30, 2010

I met Jerry Hammond as a teen when my parents moved into the house down the street from him. I already knew Gwen because she was a teacher at my high school. What a great family to have as neighbors. Over the years I met other members of the family and all of these friendships continue to date. My prayers are with this special family during this difficult time. God Bless You!

August 30, 2010

My prayer's go out to the entire Hammond Family, I was a child and remember all the great things that Jerry offered. I moved in 1981, to California but I keep in contact with my friends and family and only heard good things w/ regards to Jerry.May he rest in peace.

Roderick Huguley

August 30, 2010

I first met Mr Hammond at the Franklin County Democratic Headquarters thru Mr Albert Hawkins. I was immediately impressed by his intellect and compassion for the City of Columbus and its citizens and the cities business structure.
I to am grateful , for all his efforts and accomplishments on our behalf. My sincere symptathy to his family and friends. This city will always benefit from his efforts.

Arnett Howard

August 30, 2010

Jerry,

Let's go jazzin'. There's a bunch of hot bands up in heaven. Duke, Dizzy, Miles and Yardbird. I can hear Armstrong playing When The Saint Go Marchin' In.

I'll play it too...for you this week.

Geri Richardson-Stewart

August 29, 2010

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Calvin Sutton

August 29, 2010

My sincere sympathy to the Hammond family and friends.

August 29, 2010

To the Hammond family God Bless and keep his loving ams around you, during this difficult time. To Mary Jo, you are WONDERFUL...to his special pals you guys were terrific. God Bless Joanne Baxter-Small

Brenda Ware

August 29, 2010

May Jerry Hammond rest in peace. God bless the family.

August 29, 2010

Once in a while, someone very special will come along, and change
the world and people around them; such a man was Jerry Hammond,
whose legacy to this city is immeasurable.
Thanks Jerry for making Columbus a better place; your life was a
major chord in this city's history.
Bruce Nutt

Donna Shepherd

August 29, 2010

To the Family: I am sorry for your loss. I remember hearing Mr. Hammond name mention from my late father William Shepherd(Ajani Akinyele) during his days attending City Council meetings to promote advanvcement in the Community.

Linda Brown

August 29, 2010

To the Hammond Family: The sadness of the passing of your loved one is felt by many. I had the privilege of knowing Jerry while working on his campaign years ago and got to know him then and later as a very warm and caring person. May God be with you in the days and months to come.

Louis Jones

August 29, 2010

May you sleep in heavenly peace Mr Hammond! My condelences to the family of Mr Hammond. When I came home from the service, Mr Hammond and my uncle Herbert Holliman suggested that I try my luck with City Services,a little wink from Mr Hammond, a little push from my uncle. Thank you for your guidance! My family thanks you also!

Cassandra Mattox-Skipper

August 29, 2010

My Condolences to the family of Jerry Hammond. May God wrap his arm around each and every one of you and give you strength and peace. God Bless you all.

B Long

August 29, 2010

Family:
May God bless and keep you during your hour of mourning.
Thank you for having a family member who gave so much of himself to the community..
JOB WELL DONE!
The Long Family

George Staples

August 29, 2010

When I first moved to Columbus in 72', It was Jerry Hammond whose name that stood out regarding the city of Columbus, Ohio. He was a pioneer and outstanding Black elected official that paved the way for All the Black elected officials in Columbus today. I met him later and golfed with him as well as his son Gerry! Condolences to the family and my he rest in Peace!

JEWELL BLANCHARD-PATRICK

August 29, 2010

THANK GOD FOR THE LIFE OF A WONDERFUL MAN SUCH AS MR. HAMMOND. MAY THE LORD GIE YOU STRENGTH YOU NEED AT THIS TIME.PRAYERFULLY YOURS JEWELL BLANCHAR-PATRICK

August 29, 2010

To the family of Mr. Jerry Hammond My thoughts and Prayers are with you may God Bless you

Richard Edwards

August 29, 2010

I have met Jerry with my father in law. He was always 100% for Columbus. He wanted his city to be the best ever.

Sonia Barnett-Mitchell

August 28, 2010

To my extended family, Death is a hard thing to bear especially when they are so near. Sorrow may come today but Joy comes in the morning. Charli and Jerry you both are in my prayers and I am here if you need me.
Love you always,

Emma Barnett

August 28, 2010

Be Still

Be still like the grass on a melancholy summer day
Be still like desert shrub.

Be calm and you will hear your loved one speak, in the stillness, in the calm, their love resounds.

If you are still this promise I make, you will hear the voice of your loved one helping you along your way.

Elaine King

August 27, 2010

To the family of Jerry Hammond, God will give you the strength, to endure the pain of your loss. We will keep you in our prayers.

Elaine and Maureen King
(Wife and daughter of Clarence L. King)

Renee Cook

August 27, 2010

Jerry Hammond you will be missed by all. A fighter for all and stood up for the entire community. I'm so glad you were able to see your beautiful center dedicated to you not long ago. God bless.

Janette Kirksey

August 27, 2010

My thoughts and prayers are with the Jerry Hammond family during your lost of your precious loved one. Mr. Hammond was a great man and will greatly missed.

Janette Kirksey

August 27, 2010

Jerry Hammond...what can you say about such a great man. He was a mighty force in our community. He has done so much for the Columbus community. He was a wonderful man and gave so much of his time and self for us. I loved and respected Mr. Hammond. May God bless the family of Mr. Hammond and give you strenght and peace in this difficult time. God Bless you

Nora Bethea

August 27, 2010

To the Hammond family my deepest sympathy to you. I was Jerry's campaign treasurer for several years. He and Ako introduced me to the world of politics which lead me to be more active in my church and community. I thank him for the opportunity to learn and lead.He will be sadly missed. He was a great Statesmen

Deborrha Armstrong

August 27, 2010

My sincere sympathy to the Hammond family and friends. Take some comfort in knowing that Jerry Hammond's legacy will continue to be reflected in the lives of all those he served so well.

August 27, 2010

Jerry and family. I am sorry to hear of your loss. Your family will be kept in my prayers.

Benjamin J. Polk

August 27, 2010

My condolence to all of Jerry's family and those who loved him. Remembering all the good times. Good conversation, music which we both loved,and all the people we
mingled with. I'll always remember. A great man has passed from us.

Ben Polk

August 27, 2010

With deepest sympathy to the Hammond family.
Chris Heer Dill

Dolly Kelsor-Fryar

August 27, 2010

Thanks' for being a strong voice in the Columbus Area. If it wasn't for you a lot of things would not have happen. I will always remember you. May god watch over your family doing this sad time.

Dolly Fryar.

William and Judy Dodson

August 27, 2010

Jerry Hammond gave me a referral fo my first job upon relocating to Columbus in 1975. We was an accessible and generous leader who wore the badge of public citizen well. His contributions to the City of Columbus will not be matched because of their broad and diverse reach to all citizens. His intentionality was always inclusive.

Hazel McGinnis

August 27, 2010

Mr.Hammond - A well known respected ICON in the City of Columbus.Jerry was a mover and Shaker. A life will lived !!!!!!
Our prayers go to the family.
Mcginnis Family

Barry Thigpen

August 27, 2010

By condelences go out to the Hammond family in this time of sorrow and great loss. The community has lost a great leader and person...a person couldn't talk Columbus politics or community projects in the 70's,80's and 90's without Jerry's name being involved. He was a well liked person in many many a persons' heart. He was a strong man,who's strength has carried over to his family members. He will be truly missed.

Malcolm Mahan

August 27, 2010

Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.

Terri Tate

August 27, 2010

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

Jennie Keplar

August 27, 2010

Mr. Hammond, I've known your name for most of my life, and it has always been associated with integrity, compassion, and genuine love for our city. Thank you for dedicating so much of your energy to helping your fellow man. My love and prayers are with your family, as this must be a difficult time. Something tells me, though, that knowing your love and dedication to those who mean a lot to you, you're not very far away. God Bless You and Keep You, Mr. Hammond.

John Marshall

August 27, 2010

To Mary Jo and family. My freindship goes way back to Jerry's early days in politics becasue he first was freinds with my father who thought the world of Jerry and advised him. He will be missed as a brother in arms in Democratic politics, and as a friend. He loved my pizza which I too miss. His laughter and love for Columbus will always be there. Remember "those who touch someone's heart will live forever" and this I beleive Jerry has touch so many hearts he will forever be missed in all of Columbus's hearts.

May God Be With You

Comfort Keepers

August 27, 2010

To the Hammond family,

Sending our deepest sympathy during this difficult time.
Peace, prayers, and blessings.

Comfort Keepers of Columbus

Pamela Coleman

August 27, 2010

My condelences to the family. He was a great influence in the southside community over many years. He is truly an icon of building relationships, laughter and loving one another and bringing all of us together as a family. He is and will be truly missed. Love to the family and blessings to keep you strong.

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