Derald Hamilton

Derald Worth Hamilton Jr

Jul. 22, 1950 - Feb. 1, 2025

Resident of Sunnyvale

Derald was a man of many talents. He received Masters degrees in Divinity and Library Science and was a long-term VTA employee. His presence in the departments he worked in brought smiles, laughter and hilarious remarks from his colleagues for they never knew what surprises he was bringing to work. He always remembered birthdays, brought cakes, personalized gifts, and sang to them. He invariably generated jovial comments when he played his blue grass and country music on his radio or told his many, many jokes.

Derald's passion was writing. He was an author of several books including "The Call", "Twice Upon a Prequel & Three Shorts", and his most recent endeavor "Captain Billie and Her Blimp". His skill in washing clothes was also notable - when he washed his wife's leotards he used too much soap powder and did not rinse sufficiently. She was horrified when she began foaming in various embarrassing spots while leading a Jazzercise class.

Derald will be remembered for his kindness and generosity, and his prodigious recall of popular songs, history, and cringeworthy jokes. He was a faithful member of the Church of Christ at Campbell for 40 years. He cooked a delicious stew that he brought to parents with new babies. His culinary skills, unfortunately, did not extend to baking - he baked a "Resurrection" cake for the church, but misread the recipe and added a full bottle of Jack Daniels to the mix. It was a powerful cake and everyone was very happy.

Derald loved his dogs, "Dog", "Ned", and "Betsy". He looks forward to being reunited with them in eternal love. Even though Derald has passed into the loving embrace of Jesus, he will live forever in our hearts. He was the best friend anyone could hope for. We love you, Derald.