Irma Virginia Hamill

Irma Hamill

January 17, 1925 - January 21, 2025

Irma Hamill, a vibrant storyteller, devoted genealogist, and beloved matriarch, passed away on January 21, 2025, at the age of 100. She was preceded in death by her husband, John W. Hamill, whom she met in Miami while he was serving in the U.S. Coast Guard during World War II, and by her son, Paul B. Hamill. She is survived by Paul's widow, Karen Hamill; her son, Kent D. Hamill and his spouse, Cathy Hamill; her daughter, Lara J. Gold, and her spouse, Ronald Gold. She also leaves behind four cherished grandsons and four great-grandchildren and many fond and loving cousins, nieces and nephews.

Irma was an avid genealogist in an era when research required perseverance-requesting courthouse records, scouring microfiche, or walking through cemeteries to uncover family histories. She traced her lineage back generations and could enthrall listeners with tales of ancestors who had been the Keeper of the Gate at the Tower of London in the 12th century or a priest who ran away to Gretna Green, Scotland, to marry. Her knowledge of history made traveling to England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales an unforgettable experience for those lucky enough to accompany her.

Irma had a sharp wit and a love for storytelling. A longtime family joke centered around a supposed hospital mix-up-while Kent and Lara bore a strong resemblance to their parents, Paul stood out with his tall frame and red hair. The mystery was humorously "solved" when one of Paul's students brought back a replica of a painting of Charlemagne from Europe. The resemblance was uncanny, and thanks to Irma's genealogical expertise and previous research, Paul was able to tell them he was a descendant of Charlemagne. The rest of the family was delighted to discover the resolution of the family joke.

A lifelong lover of games and puzzles, Irma was an accomplished Scrabble player, consistently besting opponents with ease. "Be prepared to lose for the first two years," her children warned any new challengers. She read the newspaper daily, completing crossword puzzles in ink, and devoured one or two books a week. She enjoyed antiquing and never missed an opportunity to explore new places, always keeping a list of interesting destinations within a day's drive.

Irma's mischievous side was legendary. She had an expressive face that conveyed her thoughts without words, and she wasn't shy about making her opinions known. Even in her final days, she playfully wrinkled her nose and stuck out her tongue when given her medication-much to the amusement of her family.

She was deeply involved in her community, serving as a former Regent in the Daughters of the American Revolution, a member of both the Daughters of the American Colonists and the Mayflower Society, and a dedicated Beta Sigma Phi member for over 50 years. A proud graduate of Miami Senior High School, she attended monthly reunion luncheons for years. She was also a member of the Temple Terrace Friendship Club as well as the Original New Tampan Grads.

Irma's sense of civic duty led her to volunteer for Civil Defense during the Cuban Missile Crisis, where she trained to set up emergency hospitals. She also served as a hospital "pink lady" when her children were young and later as a museum docent after being widowed. She was fearless in travel, embarking on cross-country road trips alone or with her children, taking in the New York World's Fair, Sturbridge Village, and visiting relatives across Canada. Even later in life, she continued to travel both domestically and abroad, collecting cherished memories along the way.

She was known for her keen awareness of local issues, frequently calling City Hall to address concerns-so much so that one employee once greeted her by name before caller ID was even a thing. She even called the White House a couple of times to voice her opinion, never hesitating to make her voice heard.

Irma Hamill lived a full and remarkable life, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and countless stories that will continue to be shared for generations. Her family and friends will forever treasure her wisdom, humor, and adventurous spirit.