James Drinnen Hamilton

Jim Hamilton passed away at his home in Columbia, South Carolina in the early morning hours of February 5th, attended by his family and surrounded by love. He was 61 years of age and had been battling pancreatic cancer for several years.

Jim was an active and engaged member of the New Jersey Light Infantry, where he participated in 18th and 19th century living history demonstrations and reenactments across the region. He enjoyed global travel and good food, Tennessee college sports, and connecting with people over shared interests. Never idle and consistently creative, Jim was always making plans and working on a project– or a few. Other hobbies and interests included wine-making and distilling, geology, diving, gardening, culinary arts, and amateur photography. His grandchildren were continually delighted by his growing fossil and mineral collection.

An avid Disney fan, Jim was often visiting Walt Disney World or planning a trip to his favorite place on earth. He enjoyed sharing the experience and watching Disney classics with his children and grandchildren.

Jim is survived by his sons, Houston (Janelle) Hamilton and Alex (Beth Ann) Hamilton; his grandchildren Oren, Aven, and Elin; his mother, Frances Hamilton; his sister Ann (Mark) King and brother Buddy Hamilton; and his granddog, Riley. He is preceded in death by his father, Floyd Marshall Hamilton II.

A funeral service will be held on Sunday, February 9th at McCammon Ammons Click Funeral Home in Maryville, Tennessee. Family and friends are invited to gather from 2-3 p.m. for a viewing and reception, followed by the burial at Magnolia Cemetary. In remembrance of Jim, donations may be made to History Lives, or flowers sent to the funeral home. Condolences may be shared directly with the family or left at the McCammon Ammons Click Funeral Home website.

The family would like to thank those who have offered sympathy and support, with special thanks to the hospice nurses with Agape Care Group in Columbia, South Carolina for their skilled and compassionate care during Jim's final days.