Raymond "Ray" Allen Hamilton

With hearts full of sorrow and gratitude, we announce the passing of our beloved father, Raymond “Ray” Allen Hamilton, who entered into eternal life with our Lord and Savior on Friday, June 5, 2026, at the age of 90. Born in Richmond, California, on May 22, 1936, he was the son of the late Clifford Chester and Edna Mary Smith Hamilton.

Ray’s first job was for the city of Riverdale, CA, where he mapped the valves for underground water pipes. Following his service in the United States Army from 1959 to 1961, he went on to pursue his degree in business administration as an internal auditor. Ray’s hobbies included sports, specifically playing and coaching baseball, as well as reading, learning about history, and camping. Every Memorial Day was spent camping as a family in Redwood National and State Park, which was his favorite vacation spot.

His faith was the cornerstone of his life. As a member of Chapin Baptist Church, Ray enjoyed teaching and attending Sunday school classes to expand his knowledge of the Bible. He loved the Lord and spent his days deciphering God’s Word and sharing daily scripture readings to be a witness to many. Ray’s favorite scripture, 2 Timothy 3:16-17, is a testament to his life. It reads, “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness; that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.”

He cherished his family and was devoted to taking care of his wife, Carol, especially in the last few years of her life.

Ray is survived by his two daughters, Sandra Ellsworth and her husband, William, and Pamela Sargent and her husband, Rick, as well as five grandchildren: Joshua, Jacob, Nathanael, Hannah, and Maegan; and three great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife of 61 years, Carol Diane Hamilton, as well as his siblings, Clifford, Dale, Karolyn, and his twin sister, RamahLee.

Graveside services will be held at 3:00 PM on Thursday, June 11, 2026, at Chapin Baptist Church Cemetery. Family and friends are welcome to drop in for a viewing at Whitaker Funeral Home in Chapin anytime between 11:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. Thursday.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that memorial contributions be made to the Chapin Baptist Church Cemetery Fund, P.O. Box 640, Chapin, SC 29036.

Memories and messages may be shared with the family here on his tribute page.

Whitaker Funeral Home is honored to serve the Hamilton family.