Deacon Donald Hamilton

Donald Hamilton passed away peacefully on September 1, 2024, and is now resting with his Lord. He was born on April 17, 1933, in Pigeon Creek (Greenville), Alabama, the middle child of Thomas and Ina Pearl (Nix) Hamilton. Growing up in segregated rural Alabama, Donald found joy in the simple pleasures of life, spending his childhood playing in the fields with his brother, Thomas, and his sister, Zenobia. In 1945, the family relocated to Niagara Falls, NY, where Donald completed high school. In 1950, he joined the United States Army and served with the 511 Airborne Infantry Regiment as a paratrooper. During the Korean War, he sustained an injury but continued his service until receiving an honorable discharge in May 1953. After his discharge, Donald built a diverse career, working in several industries. He held positions at Autolite, Pittsburgh Steel, and Union Carbide, before retiring as a chemical operator with Goodyear Tire and Rubber after over 20 years of dedicated service. Upon retiring, Donald and his wife, Jane, fulfilled a long-held dream by embarking on a month-long cross-country trip. In 1970, Donald made the most important decision of his life when he accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior, beginning a lifelong journey of faith. He faithfully served as a deacon at Grace Calvary in Niagara Falls, NY, Cofer Grove Baptist Church in Ellenwood, GA, and Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Jonesboro, GA. One of his greatest joys was mentoring young men in the Boys Brigade, a Christian development program at Grace Calvary, where many of his mentees fondly remember him today. His passion for missions led him to Africa, where he built lasting friendships, shared his faith, and invested in local communities. During one of these trips, he helped establish the Grace Calvary Church of Africa, leaving a lasting impact on the body of Christ. On April 3, 1971, Donald married Esther Jane Isler, beginning a beautiful journey that spanned decades. Together, they built a loving family and shared cherished memories. Esther stood faithfully by his side through all seasons, especially during his declining health, and was with him when he peacefully transitioned to be with the Lord. Many would say his daughter and namesake, Donita, was the apple of his eye. Though she might humbly disagree, those who knew them well understood the truth. Donita was also by her father’s side throughout his final journey, offering love and care during this difficult time. Don loved road trips and often fondly recalled his cross-country adventures, collecting caps and matchbooks from the places he visited. He was always ready for a good meal, especially those made by his sister Zenobia, and enjoyed conversations about the Lord. Donald also had a passion for cars, with fond memories of his first Mustang. Donald was the beloved husband of Esther Jane for 53 years. He is survived by his daughter, Donita J. Hamilton of Atlanta, GA, and his three sons: Anthony (Dorothy) Owens of Niagara Falls, NY; Ron C. (Tiffany) Hamilton of Stamford, CT; and Gilbert Hamilton of Niagara Falls, NY. He is also survived by his goddaughter, Lisa Brathwaite, and his niece, Rene "Poke" Williams, who was a special blessing during his illness. He was predeceased by his sister, Zenobia Williams, and his brother, Thomas Hamilton. Additionally, he leaves to cherish his memory four grandchildren: Anthony Owens, Jr., Derrick Owens, Aiden Hamilton, and Niya Hamilton, along with ten great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, Isler Family Members In-Love, caregivers, and numerous brothers and sisters in Christ.

Tributes

Deacon Donald Hamilton

April 17, 1933 - September 1, 2024