Reverend James Leon Hamrick

KINGS MOUNTAIN- Reverend James Leon Hamrick, affectionately known to many as "Hambone” or “Preacher”, peacefully passed over to glory on October 8, 2025, at the age of 85, at home in Kings Mountain, NC. Born on May 25, 1940, in Gaston County, he lived a life that was as rich in spirit as it was in love.

Earning Doctorate Degrees in Divinity and Biblical Studies, James was a man whose life preached the gospel every bit as powerfully as did his words. A devoted pastor and founder of Pathway Baptist Church, he shepherded his flock for over 47 years. What began humbly in an auto mechanics garage as a mission, flourished into a thriving church, a testament to his unwavering faith and dedication. As a brick mason, James' hands were as skilled with bricks or stone as they were open to others, often laying the foundation of a home or mending a soul with his love for gospel music. Every note he sang was a testimony, every brick he laid, a mark of his steadfast character. He was a true artisan, utilizing brick and mortar as mediums to design and create something beautiful, from custom fireplaces to stunning brick homes.

Beyond the pulpit and the worksite, James found joy and peace in nature. An avid fisherman, he organized an annual men's fishing trip and retreat starting in 1997, bringing together friends, family, and neighboring churches to worship and enjoy God’s creation. Gardening, another favorite pastime, encapsulated his love for planting and cultivating vegetables. The harvest he shared with family, friends, and strangers, much the same way he shared the gospel of Jesus Christ and the gift of salvation.

His love for bluegrass music and gospel hymns was infectious. To him they were not just songs, but heartfelt praises.

James had a heart as big as his sense of humor. He spread laughter and kindness everywhere he went, turning strangers into friends with his fun-loving spirit and twinkling blue eyes. Known for waving at every passerby and sharing his favorite sayings, "Don't take any wooden nickels" and "Do you live around here or ride a bicycle", he spread warmth and wisdom with a generous heart. James was a staple in his community, a man who knew everyone and was beloved by all.

James is preceded in death by his parents, Leon and Marie (Guyton) Hamrick, and brothers, Ronnie, Joe, and Reid Hamrick. He is lovingly remembered by his wife of 64 years, Diane Hoyle Hamrick; his son Jamie Hamrick and wife Mary; daughters Joanie White and husband Dennis, Anne Marie Breakfield and husband Ken, and Sarah Ballard and husband Walter; sister Anarah Deviney and husband Tommy; brothers Keeter Hamrick and wife Pat, and John Wayne Hamrick and wife Sherry; grandchildren Rainey Frady and husband Jonathan, Luke Breakfield and wife Logan, Dustin Breakfield, Wendi Potter and husband Josh, Samantha Busby and husband Tyler, Kathryn Norris, Kassidy Justus and husband Adam, Jon Hamrick, and Cara White; great-grandchildren Jake, Raelynn, Abel, Jep, Walker, Annie, James, and Taylor; along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, October 16, 2025 at 4:00PM at Sunrise Baptist Church. A visitation will be held prior to the service from 2:00PM to 3:45PM at the church.

Services are entrusted to Clay-Barnette Funeral Home & Aquamation Center www.claybarnette.com