Christine Hammond

Obituary

To know Christine E. Hammond was to experience genuine, unconditional love. She embraced everyone as family, earning the cherished titles Mother, Marmie, Mama H, Grandma H, and Grandma Chris. Her gentle spirit, strength, and compassion touched countless lives and built a legacy that will carry on for generations.

Christine was born on November 25, 1935, and grew up in Harlem, NY, where she developed a deep appreciation for its rich history and culture. During her childhood, she spent summers with her cousins in Portsmouth, VA, memories she always treasured. Even after marrying, she continued visiting Portsmouth-often leading her family on historical tours, pointing out childhood landmarks, recalling family stories.

Before beginning her career in education, Christine became a phlebotomist in the 1950s. Driven by a passion for helping others learn and succeed, she later earned a Master's Degree in Education from Columbia University and served 25 years with the NYC Board of Education as a teacher.

On October 25, 1958, she married her soulmate, R.V. Hammond, and together they raised their family in The Bronx, NY, before moving to Orange County, NY in 1986, where they spent the remainder of their lives.

Christine believed in being engaged in her community and valued the political process. She faithfully worked at the voting booths during elections in Orange County, NY and attending events at the town of Woodbury Senior Center.

Christine enjoyed life fully and wholeheartedly. She loved shopping, traveling, and exploring new places-especially road trips with her beloved husband. She delighted in grocery shopping and preparing dinner for family and friends, creating meals that brought people together. She found joy in nature; she had a birdcage with finches, cared for plants and flowers in and around her home, and cherished the beauty of God's creation. It is no surprise that her favorite hymn was "In the Garden."

Christine departed this life on November 22, 2025, confident that those she loved would be alright. She lived a life led by God-walking in faith, trusting Him in every season-and now rests safely with her Savior and in the arms of her beloved husband.

She is preceded in death by her husband R.V. Hammond; her parents Ernest and Alma Osborne; and her brother Ernest Osborne. She is lovingly remembered by her son Vincent R. Hammond; her daughter Cheryl A. H. Pearsall; her son-in-law David G. Pearsall; the Osborne, Mackin, Chatman, Fane, and Faulken family lines; and a host of extended family, cherished loved ones, and lifelong friends.

Scripture

"He has shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee,

but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God." - Micah 6:8

In Loving Tribute

In honor of Christine's giving heart, the family welcomes flowers sent to:

Fisher Funeral Home

1520 Effingham Street

Portsmouth, VA 23704

Memorial donations may be made to her favorite organizations:

• St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

• American Breast Cancer Association

• Veterans charities

• Shriners Hospitals for Children