Wilda Kate Hamilton

Wilda Kate Hamilton, affectionately known as Kate to her friends and family, passed away peacefully on April 13, 2025, in Fairfield, Texas, due to complications from dementia. Born on November 21, 1941, in Brackettville, Texas, to Katie and Orry Blackmon, Kate's warmth and selflessness defined her 83 years of life.
After graduating from Luling High School in 1960, Kate embarked on a journey that would see her touch countless lives with her kindness and dedication. She began her career as a secretary at the First Baptist Church in Luling, Texas, her professional journey led her to Victoria, Texas, where she inspired many young minds as a physical education teacher for Victoria ISD. Kate's passion for nurturing growth extended to her role as a floral specialist with HEB in Corpus Christi and Mexia where she retired after 18 years of service. In retirement, she continued to influence the community by serving as a substitute teacher for Mexia ISD.
Kate's commitment to her family was unwavering. She was a devoted wife to her late husband, Charles Douglas Hamilton, and together they raised a loving family. She is preceded in death by her parents Katie and Orry Blackmon; sister, Maxine Dutton; and brother, Robert Blackmon. She is survived by her sisters, Marilyn Stroud of Waco, Texas and Edith Bowie of Gonzales, Texas; her sons, Tom Hamilton and wife Patty of Harwood, Texas, David Hamilton and wife Valerie of Campbell, Texas, Michael Hamilton and wife Debbie of Plano, Texas, and Wesley Hamilton and wife Kim of Leona, Texas; and her daughter, Julie Gaston and husband Larry of Mexia. Kate's legacy continues through her 13 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren, all of whom she adored.
Kate's life was characterized by her spirited and creative nature. She was a selfless individual who always put the needs of others before her own. As the "Best 4H Mom," she was an active adult leader in 4H, guiding her children to achieve three Gold Star 4H honors. Her enthusiasm for stock shows was contagious, and she was always ready to travel with Doug and the kids, ensuring they had everything they needed for success.
Her tireless work in the garden and with tending cattle showcased her love for the outdoors and her dedication to the land. Kate's hands were rarely still, as she was always involved in a project or lending a helping hand wherever it was needed.
As we bid farewell to Memaw, we celebrate a life lived to the fullest, marked by an unwavering commitment to family, community, and service. Her influence will continue to resonate in the lives of those she touched. Kate's journey on earth has ended, but her story will be told for generations to come, inspiring all who hear it to live with the same spirited, creative, and selfless heart that she did.