Ernestine Hamilton

Ernestine Hamilton, beloved wife, sister, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on November 26, 2025 at the age of 90. Born on May 21, 1935 in Lanier County, Georgia, she lived a life marked by devotion to her family, her church, and her community.

She was married to the love of her life, Rulus Hamilton from 1954 until his passing in 2012. Together they built a home filled with love, laughter, and deep family bonds. In addition to her husband, she was also preceded in death by her parents, Ernest and Edna Sirmans, sister Gerry Sirmans, and brother James Sirmans all from Lakeland, Georgia.

She is survived by her three daughters, who were the joy of her life: Pat Smith of Moultrie, Susan Kidd (Gilbert) of Valdosta, and Lynn Downs (Patrick) of Waycross. She is also survived by two brothers: Johnny Sirmans (Martha), and Chandler Sirmans (Dianne) of Lakeland, GA

She was the proud “MawMaw” of seven grandchildren: Jennifer Smith (Rodney Merritt) of Chapel Hill, NC, Jason Smith of Fort Payne, AL, Haley Mathey (Ryan) of Valdosta, GA, Heather Haston (Blaine) of Collierville, TN, Suzanne Johnson (Kelly) of Springfield, OR, Ross Kidd (Wendi) of Hahira, GA, and Tatum Downs of Waycross, GA. She adored her great-grand children Finn Merritt of Chapel Hill, NC, Hamilton Haston, McKinley Haston, and Hilton Haston all of Collierville, TN, Deven Kidd and Allie Kidd from Hahira, GA, and Ethan Johnson and Aaron Johnson of Springfield, OR. Her love for her family was deep and unwavering, and she cherished every moment spent with them.

For more than sixty years, she was devoted to her church, Northside Baptist and the people in it. She showed her faith through kindness, helping others, and being there whenever someone needed support. Her steady presence and caring heart made her a special part of her church community. Her love and dedication will be remembered by everyone who knew her. She was a devoted prayer warrior who covered her family, friends, and community in constant prayer, offering comfort and strength to all who needed it. Her family rejoiced knowing she heard the words she lived her whole life for: “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Matthew 25:23.

Funeral services will be held at 11am on Saturday, November 29, 2025, in the chapel of the Carson McLane Funeral Home. Burial will follow the service at Sunset Hill Cemetery. The family will visit prior to the service from 10-11am. Online condolences may be shared at www.mclanecares.com.

Carson McLane Funeral Home