Ronald Eugene Hamilton 71, of Gilmer, TX died Friday February 24, 2017 in Gilmer, TX. Graveside service will be held Tuesday February 28, 2017 at 2 p.m. at Leesburg Cemetery in Leesburg, TX. Services are under the direction of J.C. White Funeral & Cremation Services of Mt. Pleasant, TX.
Ronald Eugene Hamilton passed away on February 24, 2017, surrounded by family and beloved friends. He was 71 years old. Ronnie is survived by his son, William Jess Hamilton of White Oak, siblings Donald Hamilton, Sheila Brown and brother-in-law Lynn Brown, and brother by choice Reverend Mervin Scott, as well as by many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and friends. He is preceded in death by his wife of 37 years, Marsha Cline Hamilton, his parents OK and Betty Hamilton, siblings MaryEllen Zabel and an infant sister, his in-laws Marshall and Nathalee Cline and sister-in-law Deborah Giorgio Hamilton. Ronnie was born on March 13, 1945, the oldest son of Betty and OK Hamilton, in Peoria, Illinois. He was a warm and loving big brother to his younger siblings, whom he cherished. In 1952, the family moved to Longview, Texas, and Ronnie graduated from Longview High School, Class of 1964. He was a much-admired baseball player playing for the Longview City League, and was scouted by the Boston Red Sox, but threw out his shoulder during try-outs. He worked for eighteen years as a machinist at Marathon LeTourneau in Longview, and then spent the remainder of his career working retail, warehouse and the garden center at K-Mart. Ronnie also spent his days as a volunteer firefighter for the White Oak Volunteer Fire Department, and as a committed member of Lighthouse Church in Longview. He adored his family, doted on his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, his nieces and nephews. Ronnie was an avid fisherman. He collected eagles and crosses and read the Bible daily. He had a big, gentle presence that filled a room and radiated love and faith to all who knew him. Heartfelt thanks to the wonderful staff at Wesley House, his home since 2013, and to Care Team Hospice for caring for Ronnie in his final days.
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