Kaye Hamlin Near

Kaye Hamlin Near, age 88, of Lavon, Texas, passed away peacefully on September 10, 2025, surrounded by her devoted daughters after a courageous battle with dementia and cancer. Born on January 22, 1937, in Lorena, Texas, she was the beloved daughter of Beatrice Vaughn Hamlin and William Moritz Hamlin.

Kaye was a woman of remarkable resilience and unwavering strength. She spent her early years in Texas before relocating to Washington State during her teens. There, she met and married Robert Near on September 13, 1957. Her determination and love enabled her to raise five children, largely on her own, with grace and perseverance. 

For approximately 25 years, Kaye was a dedicated employee at Walmart, where she worked in the jewelry department and lovingly pierced the ears of many of her granddaughters. She was a passionate supporter of her family’s endeavors, never missing a sporting event, cheerleading competition, gymnastics meet, drill team performance, theater production, choir concert, or piano recital. 

Kaye had a joyful appreciation for food and adventure, never passing up a good meal or a spontaneous car ride. In her later years, her favorite phrase was, “Are we going somewhere?” She enjoyed sewing and her daughters relished her amazing Barbie Doll clothes creations along with homecoming dresses and prom gowns. 

She is survived by her children: Carrin Feagins, Lisa Bilek, and Susan Hall; her grandchildren: Amber Barfield, Jessie Carpenter, Rachel Hogan, Colin Feagins, Olivia Feagins, Kendrick Carpenter, Yasmin Miller, Darrius Miller, and Gabby Hall; and her great grandchildren: Audrey Lewis, Jordyn Rincon, Ava Rincon, Allie Rincon, Kryan Carpenter, Elijah Carpenter, Harper Hogan, and Rylah Eloise Kaye Liles. She was preceded in death by her children, Robert Near II and Vicki Toren, and her grandson, Walter Miller. 

A memorial service will be held on November 8, 2025, at 2:00 PM at First Baptist Church Lavon in their chapel, located at 205 Main Street, Lavon, Texas 75166. 

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Friend’s Place and Faith Presbyterian Hospice for their compassionate care during Kaye’s illness. Condolences and floral tributes may be sent to First Baptist Church Lavon. 

Though our hearts are heavy with her absence, we find comfort in the countless beautiful memories she leaves behind, knowing we will see her in heaven one day. Please join us in celebrating Kaye’s life—a life filled with love, laughter, and enduring devotion. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished in our hearts.