Ernest Pierce Hamilton

Our beloved father, Ernest P. Hamilton, born on September 9, 1936 passed away at the age of 89 on Wednesday, 12/17/2025, surrounded by his loved ones.
He was a hardworking man with a history of working at the Nickleplate railroad, American Steel Foundries, and the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT).
His favorite hobby was pitching horseshoes for many years competing in tournaments which brought him much joy and many friendships.
Above all, his family was his greatest source of pride. He was a constant presence in the lives of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who were truly his pride and joy.
He was preceded in death by his son Rory Hamilton, his parents Katherine, nee Kolb and Emmett E. Hamilton; his sister, Verna Nunez; sister, Buddy Hagely, brother, Emmett Hamilton.
Ernie is survived by his children Kelly Christensen of Fairview Heights, IL., Robin (Kevin) Lanman of Fairview Heights, IL, Angela Messina of Fairview Heights, IL. his grandchildren, Chad (Sarah) Garcia of Lebanon, IL., Shannah (Eric) Reamer of Lebanon, IL. Cody Garcia of Columbia, IL. Alayna (Mark) Lightle of Troy, IL. Lindsey (Ryan) Hutson of SAFB, IL. Mason (Maya) Messina of Wentzville, Mo., Miranda (Alec) Jackson of Gulf Breeze, FL. Alexis Messina of O'Fallon, Mo. Jared Fleshren of Belleville, IL. and Morgan (Vasilis) Odysseos of O'Fallon IL., Kristin Lanman of Belleville, IL.; great grandchildren Taylor, Tori and Eli Garcia, Delaney, Everly, and Wrenly Reamer, Hannah and Breanna Lightle, Delilah, Luna, and Cayde Hutson, Koa Messina, Stevie Jackson, Joey, Johnny, Kevin and Chris Perez; and his siblings, Billie (Don) Eccher of Millstadt, IL, Shari Hamilton of Fairview Heights, IL, Ronnie(Carla) Hamilton of Fairview Heights, IL. and Ross (Glenna) Hamilton of Hollywood Heights, IL. Ernie is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
A special thank you to Ernie's nephew, Dennis Hamilton, for always being available to lend a helping hand whenever needed. The family extends their deepest thanks and heartfelt gratitude to the staff at The Colonnade Senior Living for the compassionate and dedicated care they provided him in his final years.
He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
Upon his request, he will be cremated. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ernest, please visit our floral store.