Samuel Hamilton

Samuel Alexander Hamilton (Dad) was born to Richard Hamilton and Jerusha Wallace in the town of Ancon, Canal Zone, Republic of Panama on November 14, 1927. Samuel had two brothers, Arnold and Scotch, and two sisters, Jane and Tiney, all who preceded him in death.He was the second youngest of his siblings and the youngest of the boys.

In 1952 Samuel joined the United States Army, servingin France during the Korean War. He worked in a morgue where fellow soldiers' fallen bodies were prepared for shipment back to United States. His most prominent memory of the Army was traveling to Paris (to party) when he had to deliver a body at the train station there; his worst memory was peeling many, many potatoes when he was given KP!(This also explained why he would never admit to having any cooking ability afterwards.) He often said, "If you let them know you can do it (cook), they might put you to work in the kitchen, man!"

Samuel returned to the Canal Zone after his military service. While in Panama, he learned to work as a brick mason and a carpenter. This experience ultimately helped him secure a position with the (U.S. Civil Service) Panama Canal Commission. He retired as a Security Officer on November 3, 1989, after a total of 33 years, 8 months, and 15 days of service. He prided himself in demonstrating a strong work ethic at whatever job he held-usually arriving at work early and working late. He ensured that his work was done accurately and precisely. In later years he remembered the words of one woman who observed him at work: "You'll never go hungry, Sam!"

Samuel leaves behind three daughters, Berta (Lynn), Ana (Orlen), and Rose, and one son, Francisco (Maria), as well as numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nephews and nieces.Following is ascripture that best describes Samuel's character during his last years: "Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers." Psalm 1:1.

He was indeed blessed and a blessing to those who knew him well and will be greatly missed.