Ross Hamilton

Mr. Ross Neal Hamilton of Monroeville, Alabama passed away Wednesday, April 23, 2014 after a brief illness. He is survived by his loving spouse of over fifty years, Kay Turberville Hamilton, his two children Todd Neal Hamilton (Collin and John Ross) and Kathy Hamilton Gervasi (Richard, Ross and Kathryn) and his sister Jane Hamilton Bradley (John, Shannon and Jenny).

Neal was born on October 25, 1936 in Frisco City, Alabama, the son of Ross Woodford Hamilton and Evelyn Neal Hamilton. He attended Frisco City High School where he excelled in all sports, and was named All County for five years. After graduating from high school in 1955, Neal attended East Central Junior College in Decater, Mississippi on a football scholarship. After completing Junior College, Neal transferred to Auburn University where he majored in Forestry, earning his B.S. degree in Forestry in 1959. He returned to Monroe County where he worked as a forester and timber dealer for forty years.

Neal served as an air traffic controller for the Montgomery Air National Guard Base for eight years in the 1960s. He was based out of Dannelly Field, Montgomery, Alabama, in the 160thh Tactical Reconnaissance Group.

Neal was an avid Auburn football fan, a lover of dogs, especially Boston Terriers and Fox Hounds, and a colorful storyteller of Monroe County history. He was an active leader in the community, teaching Sunday school for years at Monroeville Methodist Church, and later becoming a member of the Annunciation Catholic Church. Neal, a strong supporter of the public schools, served in many roles, including President of the Monroe County High School Booster Club in 1981-1982. He was active in coaching Little League Baseball and Babe Ruth teams, including several All Star teams.

Neal was dearly loved by his family and friends. He was a strong influence in many people's lives. His love and compassion for others, and humility, served as great examples for all who knew him. The greatest love of his life was his family, to whom he was greatly devoted. He died with the peace of Christ in his heart, courageously and with dignity.

The funeral will be conducted at 1:00 pm CST on Saturday, April 26th at Annunciation Catholic Church in Monroeville, Alabama. The family will greet visitors prior to the funeral mass beginning at 12:00. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in remembrance of Neal to St. Jude Hospital. There will be a graveside service upon completion of the funeral mass, followed by a reception at the Prop and Gavel Restaurant in downtown Monroeville. All family and friends are invited to attend to share in the loving memory of a special man, husband, father, grandfather, and friend. All arrangements were handled by Johnson Funeral Home in Monroeville, AL. Visit our online registry at: www.johnsonfh.org.