Jay Clayton "Jaybird" Hamilton

1967 - 2024

Jay "Jaybird" Clayton Hamilton

Dec. 4, 1967 - May 3, 2024

PEORIA - With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Jay "Jaybird" Clayton Hamilton, a beloved husband, father, grandfather "Paw", brother, and son, who departed this life surrounded by family on May 3, 2024, at the age of 56 in Peoria, IL. Born on December 4, 1967, in Bloomington, IL, Jay was a fun-loving beacon of light and laughter to all who had the pleasure of knowing him. The most important thing to Jay was the people around him.

He is survived by his wife, of nearly 10 years, Kimberly Hamilton; and his children: Clayton (Brooke) Hamilton, Carly Hamilton, Casey (Shelby) Hamilton, Christian Kovich, Matthew Kovich and Faith Kovich. Jay leaves behind two granddaughters: Clare Hamilton and London Hamilton; his siblings: Troy Hamilton and Brad Hamilton; as well as his parents, Dee and Sharon Hamilton. He is preceded in death by his first wife, and mother of three of his children, Lori Hamilton, who lost her battle with breast cancer in 2011. We also can't leave out his beloved dogs and cat, Lucy, Hank and Frank; as well as the many in-laws and treasured friends that meant so much to him.

Jay was a graduate of Heyworth High School and later received his degree from Illinois State University. After graduating, Jay built houses in the Bloomington area before joining the family business at Randolph Ag Services.

He then started his career at State Farm in Greeley, CO and eventually transferred back to Bloomington where he finished his career.

In 2014, Jay married Kim bringing together a family of six children. Jay was an avid boater and camper. Jay's ability to quote movie lines and music artists was always a source of entertainment. He loved cooking for his family and was highly skilled at the grill winning several BBQ awards. However, Jay's favorite thing above all was entertaining those he loved.

His visitation will be from 3:00-7:00 p.m., Monday, May 13, 2024 at Carmody-Flynn Funeral Home, Bloomington. The funeral will be at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at St. Patrick Church of Merna, Bloomington, with Rev. Dustin Schultz officiating. Burial will be private. A Celebration of Life will be scheduled at a later date with details to follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation, the Community Cancer Center, or the Susan G. Komen For The Cure.

Let us come together to celebrate the life of a man who was the heart, soul, and elaborate storyteller at every gathering. Jay's kind spirit, sense of humor, and infectious laughter will be profoundly missed but never forgotten.

To express condolences online, please visit www.carmodyflynn.com.