Horace Hamilton

 

Horace Bishop Hamilton, Jr., went peacefully to the Arms of his loving Savior in the comfort of his home, on October 28, 2023.        

He was born in Florence, Texas, to Horace & Nettie Mae Hamilton, on June 2, 1924. 

As one of four children, he lived with numerous relatives across the State of Texas, working on their farms beginning at age 5, and living on very little. He learned to be self-reliant, driven, and hard working.

At the age of 17 he enlisted in the US Navy, and after boot camp received orders to report to Pearl Harbor.  Horace served aboard the USS Phoenix CL-46 when the Japanese attacked on December 7, 1941.  Serving his country more than four years, he took part in 32 engagements in the Pacific Campaign.  

After returning from the war, Horace graduated from Le Tourneau Technical Institute with an Associate’s degree in Mechanical Engineering.  He met the love of his life, Virginia, whom he considered to be the most beautiful woman ever.  After they married, Horace and Virginia built a life in Houston, Texas, with two loving daughters. 

Retiring from ARMCO Steel after 34 years, Horace hand-built his home a second time in Caldwell, Texas and found peace in farm life, raising cattle, horses, and other livestock.  He was a master gardener, avid hunter and fisherman, who took pride in consuming the fruit of his labor.  He enjoyed dancing, writing poetry, cooking, and working with his hands.  Truly a man for all seasons, and lived an outstanding American Dream life.  He left us with a shining example and legacy to try to follow.  Generous, and eager to help physically and financially, the huge impact of his life will never be forgotten.  He excelled at everything he did, and accomplished so much in one lifetime, it’s simply incredible.  Everyone will agree, he was one of a kind, a jack of all trades, and a Great American Hero!

Horace’s historical knowledge contributed to the research of several Texas historical books, with many of his personal recollections published in From Cotton Fields to Battles at Sea: Memoirs of Horace Hamilton, Pearl Harbor Survivor by LinMarie Garsee.

As part of The Greatest Generation, he was of a different breed.  He accomplished and overcame incredible odds and hardships, and made sacrifices for his family and country.  He had a lifetime of knowledge, skills and valuable wisdom.  Truly amazing!

He was a treasure that simply cannot be replaced.  Men like him built America and saved the world.  There are no words enough to be able to properly thank them.

He was baptized into Jesus Christ, his precious Lord and Savior, at the age of 94 and committed himself to serving others. Through a weekly prayer quilt ministry, Horace fervently prayed over hundreds of special quilts for many people, including veterans and active servicemen. 

Horace was a life member of the VFW Post 4458 where he served as an All American Quartermaster, District 17 VFW Quartermaster, and Burleson County Veteran Service Officer.  On his 99th birthday, Horace was bestowed the Military Order of the Cootie, the Honor Degree of the VFW.  He received multiple state and congressional awards with flags flown in his honor.  He loved and respected all of his comrades in arms, and deeply appreciated their service.

Horace was preceded in death by his parents, his sisters and their husbands, and his beloved wife of 69 years.

He is survived by his two daughters:  Linda Moore and husband Doug of Caldwell, and Brenda Terry and husband Jim of Milano.

Grandchildren:  Melissa Arnold and husband Tommy, Bryan Moore and wife Christine, Cheryl (Nikki) Green and husband Robert.

Great Grandchildren:  Megan Cue and husband James, Nicole Rolison Garner, Cody Rolison, Gabriella Moore, Emily Moore, Sarah Burkhardt and husband Brandon, Matthew Green and wife Stephanie, and William Green.

Great Great Grandchildren:  Madilynn Garner and McKenna Garner.  Many cousins, nephews and nieces.

The family wishes to express special thanks to Horace’s caring doctors, nurses, and medical staff, as well as his faithful friends and comrades through the years.

 

Our hearts are overflowing with gratitude to Josie Cherico, his caregiver, for her dedication to his wellbeing, providing compassionate care, and sharing God’s love.  You were his best friend, biggest fan, and so much more; we cannot possibly thank you enough!  It’s easy to see why he called you his angel, and we’re thankful to call you family.  We appreciate all you’ve done for us and love you so much.

 

FAIR WINDS AND FOLLOWING SEAS, OLD SALT!